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Resolving NHS dental contract disputes in England

Guidance for dental contractors on resolving disputes over the terms of the General Dental Services (GDS) Contracts and Personal Dental Services (PDS) Agreements in England.

Contents

  • Overview
  • Resolving disputes informally
  • Formal dispute resolution procedures
  • The role of NHS Resolution

Overview

Contractors may find themselves in dispute with commissioners over the terms or operation of their primary care NHS contracts. These disputes can arise for a variety of reasons including contractual interpretation, performance concerns, funding arrangements, or service delivery expectations. NHS dental contracts are statutory in nature, meaning they are governed by legislation and sit within a detailed legal and regulatory framework.

As a result, there is a prescribed framework that should be used for resolving disputes. Understanding which process applies to your circumstances is an important first step in addressing any disagreements effectively. Having a clear understanding of your contractual position will help you respond appropriately and avoid escalation wherever possible. As an Extra or Expert member, you can seek one-to-one advice from our team to understand the options available to you.

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