No reassurance

The Dental Defence Union (DDU) issued the advice after being notified of a number of complaints resulting from confusion about a patient's exemption from charges.

Nick Torlot, DDU dento-legal adviser, said:

"Fees are a common cause of complaint in dental practice. Recently, we have seen an increase in calls from members whose patients have had their exemption status queried, possibly because it is being policed more frequently. Patients who have claimed an exemption from NHS charges inappropriately can face a fixed penalty fine of £100 in addition to the cost of the treatment provided. If practices have helped the patient apply for free treatment, the patient may blame them and make a complaint.

"The rules on claiming exemption or help with charges are complex and while it is important for the dental team to be familiar with them, it is the patient's responsibility to apply for assistance. The patient must complete the necessary form (FP17) to claim an exemption, signing and dating it and providing the additional information required. It is important not to advise the patient about their entitlement to avoid raising their expectations, which can lead to a complaint if the patient is found not to be exempt.