BDA committee strongly condemns GDC’s direct access ruling

A British Dental Association (BDA) committee has issued a strong rebuke of a recent General Dental Council (GDC) decision to permit direct patient access to dental hygienists and therapists. 

The BDA's General Dental Practice Committee (GDPC) – which comprises more than 60 dentists elected by local practitioners – voted unanimously to support a motion condemning the ruling, on the basis that it fails to protect patients.

According to GDPC chair Dr John Milne, the debate that preceded the vote was characterised by "palpable anger" at the GDC's hasty implementation of this change and its failure to consider all of the evidence.

Following this ruling – which came into effect this month – hygienists and therapists can carry out their full scope of practice without the patient having to see a dentist first.

However, the BDA fears that these professionals are not qualified to provide the holistic, comprehensive care offered by dentists, while noting that the change is not supported by patients.

Dr Milne said: "The council's decision fails to promote the concept and value of the dental team, which we believe is integral to the delivery of safe, high-quality care for patients."