In March 2024, the previous government introduced a New Patient Premium (NPP), designed to help patients who have been unable to receive NHS dental care in the preceding two years. The premium is worth £15 for Band 1 treatment, and £50 for Bands 2 and 3 treatments.
The premiums are paid automatically by the BSA in the form of additional UDAs, equivalent in value to £15 or £50, depending on the treatment. Treatments for a patient who attracts this premium will therefore be worth more UDAs than usual.
"UDAs allocated for the New Patient Premium must be attributed to the associate as would any other UDAs performed by the associate."
Our view on the NPP
It is the BDA's view that the UDAs allocated for the New Patient Premium must be attributed to the associate as would any other UDAs performed by the associate.
Without specific wording in an associate agreement, we cannot see how a practice would have discretion as to which UDAs performed by the associate would be paid and which wouldn’t. Indeed, we cannot see how it would be fair or professional for one party to reap the full benefit of another's labour.
It’s been brought to our attention that forums are sharing how we’ve advised a practice owner that the NPP payments are at their discretion. We’d like to reassure all members that this is not the case.
NPP advice for associates
We encourage associates to check their pay and any NHS statements carefully. If associates have any doubt or questions about their pay, they should take steps to seek clarification either from the practice or from an advisor.
Our advice teams are experienced in helping associates and it pays to take qualified professional advice. Extra and Expert members can book a call.
