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Mosedale R, Batchelor P. Prim Dent Care 2012; 19: 111–115

Although lacking the intensity of a tightly ventilated argument, this written debate adds a different dimension. The arguments for specialists lists have been well rehearsed and are predicated on the claim that some patients require complex care, particularly those who are elderly and dentate. The case against specialist lists is illustrated by a triangle. This is an analogy for population need, 'the height of which corresponds to the growing complexity of a problem'. The triangle can be fragmented into 'compartments on some ill-defined basis consisting of technical or managerial complexities'. Alternatively, this triangle could be a single area representing the 'entitlement' of all dental practitioners to meet the need of the community but to 'send to colleagues should they feel (that patient's need)...is beyond their current capabilities.'