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Joining and leaving the Dental List in Northern Ireland

Guidance for dentists on the requirements and procedures for joining or leaving the Dental List in Northern Ireland, including notifications, forms, training obligations, and responsibilities to patients and the Department of Health (DoH).

Overview

Dentists who wish to provide Health and Social Care (HSC) dentistry in Northern Ireland must be included on the Dental List. To join, applicants must complete form HS48 and submit it to the appropriate Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) office for the area in which they intend to practise. Supporting documentation is required, including GDC registration, professional indemnity cover, and evidence of completion of UK foundation training or an approved exemption. Dentists without a foundation training number must apply separately using form HS48A. New entrants are also required to attend a new starter information session, unless they have attended one within the previous two years.

Applicants must undergo an AccessNI Enhanced Check, ensuring appropriate safeguarding for clinical staff. In some cases, occupational health screening or a health declaration may also be required. Dentists already on the Dental List who wish to work at a further practice location must apply for a separate list number for each site.

Dentists providing publicly funded dentistry who decide to leave the Dental List must give at least three months’ written notice to the SPPG and notify their patients simultaneously. Patients must be clearly informed of the date their registration will end and how ongoing care will be managed. The Business Services Organisation (BSO) must also be notified of any outstanding treatment and the arrangements for completion.

Deregistering patients from the HSC system is a formal process governed by the General Dental Services Regulations (NI) 1993. Open courses of treatment should be completed before deregistration wherever possible, with alternative arrangements documented and communicated if this is not feasible. Deregistration is only valid once the appropriate WCA 966 form has been submitted and processed by the BSO.

Failure to follow correct procedures can result in financial recovery of capitation or continuing care payments, potential complaints, or regulatory action. Deregistration decisions must be fair, non-discriminatory, and ethically sound. Clear communication and early engagement with relevant bodies are essential to ensure compliance and protect both patients and practitioners.

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