Abstract
AIM: To examine the opportunities and limitations for dental hygienists and therapists (DCPs) delivering periodontal care in primary care settings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among primary care dental providers in the South West of England following University of Bristol ethical approval (number 15281). The survey assessed the current providers' views on utilization of DCPs, including availability, their practice, direct access and provider perspectives on referrals and remuneration. RESULTS: Thirty-one providers participated, with 30(97%) offering both NHS and private services and 1(3%) private only. Twenty-eight providers (90%) employed a DCP, primarily a hygienist (n = 23,82%). While all providers referred patients to DCPs, 18 (64%) referred only for private care. Three (11%) provided NHS direct access, compared to 18 (64%) for private, citing financial and workload barriers. Remuneration methods varied, with percentage split (n = 16,57%) being most common. Over half of the respondents (n = 18,58%) felt NHS use of DCPs was unfeasible, and 21(68%) doubted that NHS contract reforms would improve DCP employment opportunities. CONCLUSION: Current NHS contracts may not sufficiently support DCP involvement in NHS periodontal care, indicating the need for contract reform to facilitate their broader use.