Abstract

This paper describes the development of a local solution to the problem of the provision of out-of-hours dental care in Newcastle and North Tyneside in the north east of England. Focus groups were used to review the current provision of, and problems with, dental out-of-hours emergency provision. A consensus conference involving both general dental and medical practitioners, was subsequently used to develop possible alternative methods for the provision of out-of-hours emergency dental services. A centralised service delivered from a secure location in conjunction with general medical practitioners was developed which was dependent on a nurse-led triage. The linkage with NHS Direct may be an opportunity, in some locations, to integrate dental services more fully with other out-of-hours primary care services. The method described allowed a solution to be generated by practitioners themselves, thus giving ownership and acceptance to the chosen option.

1. Consultant in Dental Public Health, Newcastle and North Tyneside Health Authority, Benfield Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 4PF
2. Research Associate, Centre for Health Services Research, University of Newcastle, 21 Claremont Place, Newcastle upon Tyne
3. Specialist Registrar in Dental Public Health, Newcastle and North Tyneside Health Authority, Benfield Road, Newcastle upon Tyne
4. Consultant in Dental Public Health, Sunderland Health Authority, Durham Road, Sunderland
5. Professor of Health Services Research, Centre for Health Services Research, University of Newcastle, 21 Claremont Place, Newcastle upon Tyne

Correspondence to: D J Evans¹ e-mail: David.Evans@nant-ha.northy.nhs.uk