Overview
Deciding to transition from Health and Social Care (HSC) to private practice is a significant step, and while the decision ultimately rests with you, it is important to involve the right people at the right time. Speaking with colleagues, professional bodies, and relevant organisations can help you test your thinking, understand the practical implications, and reduce the risk of avoidable problems.
Many dentists find it helpful to discuss their plans with family and peers. Support from family can be crucial during periods of change, and fellow dentists who have already made the transition can often provide valuable insight into what worked well, challenges they faced, and how they managed them.
Engaging your practice team early is essential. Any discussions you have should be open and honest, as individual views and intentions will directly affect how existing HSC patients are managed. If some dentists in your practice wish to continue providing HSC care, you will need to consider whether they can absorb patients who do not want to move to private care or if deregistration is unavoidable. These decisions will shape how you communicate with patients and how smoothly the transition is handled.
Financial arrangements are another consideration. You will need to decide how private patients will pay for care, whether through pay‑as‑you‑go, a dental plan provider, or an in‑house capitation scheme. Exploring different models and understanding the support and costs involved will help you choose an approach that fits your practice and patient base.
A move towards private care may also prompt you to review your practice facilities. Private patients often expect a more personalised experience and higher-quality surroundings. While major refurbishment is not always necessary, targeted improvements to equipment, surgeries, or waiting areas can enhance patient perception.
Before making a final decision, if you are an Extra or Expert member, we strongly recommend speaking with our advisors for one-to-one support. They can help you navigate the process of terminating your HSC contract and ensure your patient communications are appropriately worded.
Once a decision is made, timely and professional communication with the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) and patients is essential. The SPPG’s Guidance on Dealing with Practice Changes should be reviewed carefully, and early engagement will support a compliant transition that prioritises patients’ interests and safeguards the practice.
