COSTS OF DENTAL CARE

We always ensure that our Patients are aware, from the outset, whether they are receiving care under the N.H.S. or Privately. The Government sets the cost of N.H.S. Dental treatment and you will pay the same whichever Dental Practice you choose to go. Information on the cost of Dental care is available from your Dentist or Receptionist. Fees for Private Dental care vary between Dentists and depend, for example, on the quality of materials and Dental Laboratory work as well as general Practice running expenses. Information on the cost of Private care is available from your Dentist or Receptionist.

PAYMENT

At the initial visit patients are advised of the expected cost of treatment. Cash, cheques or debit payments will be accepted following any treatment received. Please inform the Dentist or Receptionist if you are entitled to free treatment. You will be required to show proof of your entitlement. As we can no longer charge for missed appointments we are requesting payment for all pre booked appointments, as this may eliminate wasted time.

COMPLAINTS

If you have any complaint about the care and treatment that you have received at the Practice, please speak to our Practice Manager, Mrs.Jane Armitage who will attempt to resolve the complaint according to the Practice’s Complaints Policy.

CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY

This Practice incorporates a Confidentiality Policy. Information will only be shared with any Heath Care Professional who has an interest with your Dental background i.e. Referral to a Hospital. All patients have the right to request to see their Dental Record.

DATA PROTECTION

This Practice is fully compliant with the Data Protection Act. This Practice has a Confidentiality Policy and all members of staff will comply with legislation.

INDEPENDENT OPTIONS

We offer affordable Private dental treatments to both adults and children. Please contact Reception for details of our Private Dental Plans that are available to our patients.

MIXING – PRIVATE TREATMENT FOR NHS PATIENTS

The N.H.S provides all the treatment that is necessary to secure and maintain your oral health. There are some treatments (for example cosmetic) which are not routinely available under the NHS, and you may choose to have some treatment privately. You may also choose to have some treatment privately as an alternative to NHS treatment. If you wish to have some private treatment then your dentist will give you a written estimate and treatment plan before the treatment is started.

THE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITES OF THE PATIENT

What we expect from you

· To attend for your appointments promptly, and if that is not possible let us know as soon as possible. We may charge for non-attendance with less than 24 hours notice.
· To pay your bills as requested on time. To help you to do this we do accept cash, cheques and most credit cards. This will be payable on each visit following the receipt of treatment. As we can no longer charge for missed appointments we are requesting pre payment for any future booked appointment times. This we feel may eliminate wasted time. If you feel you may be exempt from charges (NHS only), please discuss this with your dentist at your first visit. Please note that NHS regulations require us to see evidence of exemption in all cases...
· If you are not happy with your visits you will tell us your concern, as that is the only way that we can put it right and improve our service to you.
· If you are happy with your visits then we would like you to refer patients of a similar quality to yourself, whom you feel would like the things we offer. In this way we can continue to have a flow of new people and be here for you when you need us next time.

VIOLENT BEHAVIOUR

The Practice will not tolerate aggressive or verbal abuse towards any member of staff. If an incident of this nature does take place we will complete an incident form and forward to Sheffield West P.C.T who will take any necessary action. The Patient will not be accepted at this Practice for any further treatment.

SHEFFIELD WEST P.C.T

Further details of primary dental services in the area may be obtained from:-
Sheffield West P.C.T.
Hillsborough Barracks
Langsett Road
Sheffield
Tel: 01142 264600