Overview
Absence and time away from dental practice in Northern Ireland must be managed carefully to ensure continuity of patient care and full compliance with the General Dental Services (GDS) Regulations. Practice owners and performers have clear responsibilities for notifying the SPPG when an absence occurs, whether it is planned or unplanned.
Absence may arise from sickness, maternity, paternity, annual leave, training commitments, or other authorised reasons, and each type carries specific rules that determine how it should be reported and how long the performer may be away from the practice and arrangements for cover.
You must have reliable systems in place for monitoring absence, recording relevant details and submitting the correct notifications within the required timescales. These processes help ensure that your contractual obligations are met and that patient care is not disrupted. Where absences are prolonged or occur at short notice, practices must consider how services will be maintained and whether temporary cover or adjustments to appointment schedules are required.
In addition to SPPG requirements, practices must comply with RQIA expectations for governance and service continuity, particularly where extended absence might affect the safe delivery of care.
Understanding entitlements to HS pay during periods of leave is also essential. Payments may be affected depending on the type and duration of the absence, and you must be aware of the rules that apply to statutory and contractual payments. Forward planning, supported by accurate record keeping, will help you manage workload, maintain patient access and remain compliant with the terms of your GDS contract.
A clear and transparent absence management process benefits both the practice and the wider dental team. By communicating expectations, documenting procedures and ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements, you can manage time away from the practice effectively and minimise the risk of contractual breaches.