Dentists are being urged to check that the finance contracts for their dental practice computer systems allow for upgrades, in anticipation of the new contract introductions on 1 April 2006. With inadequate time for software companies to test their new programs and the necessity for many practices to replace or update their systems so that they can cope with the demands of the new contracts, most practices are aware of the possible computer glitches that may arise. Many, however, will not have considered the financial implications.

Jonathan Smith of Siemens Financial Services Professions Division, says, 'There is a real prospect that the profession may have to revert to a paper system as a back up as, despite their best efforts, IT providers may struggle to have fully tested systems in place for 1st April. Many practices will need to upgrade their IT software and so it is essential that they check with their finance provider that the agreement they have in place includes an upgrade option facility. If it doesn't, then we urge dentists to speak to their finance provider to understand how they can invest in new technology without increasing the monthly cost.'