AQW 4416/22-27

Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 11/10/2022
Answered On Date: 27/10/2022
Priority Written: Yes

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health why more notice was not given to dental practices, informing them that the 25 per cent uplift on fees paid for health service treatments will be reduced to 10 per cent next month.

Answer:

The Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS) was established specifically in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the impact of the pandemic significantly reducing over the past number of months and most restrictions now removed, the justification for ongoing COVID-specific support has also reduced. However, it is acknowledged that the impacts have not entirely receded with inefficiencies created by increased “Did Not Attends” and associated staff absences. It is for this reason that I committed to continuing support to the end of the financial year.

Confirmation of the further extension of RSS to the end of 2022/23 was provided to General Dental Practitioners at the earliest opportunity, following a review of the ongoing impact of the pandemic and confirmation of the availability of the additional funding required.