We urge the UK Government to publish the responses and next steps to the consultation on overseas dentist provisional registration route. The consultation closed in May. We think the Govt must clarify why progress stalled, provide a clear timeline, and prioritize resolving NHS dental shortages.
We think the NHS faces a catastrophic dental care crisis, with many unable to access treatment and vulnerable patients suffering preventable pain. We think the provisional registration route proposed for qualified overseas dentists as an alternative to the ORE exam could immediately alleviate shortages. Yet, despite a consultation closing in 2024, there is no update. We think delays worsen the crisis: A 2022 study showed that 90% of UK practices refuse new adult NHS patients.
We think the new government must clarify why this solution remains stalled.