Sir, I write in response to the letter entitled 'seeking clarification'.

The article addresses the practicalities of associates obtaining their own locum cover. In most cases, dental practice owners and associates agree that the practice owner will arrange cover for associates.

That allows practice owners to retain control and associates to take time off without having to worry about their contractual obligations. Nevertheless, there may be cases where associates wish to obtain their own locum cover; even in NHS practices. This is possible in the current regulatory landscape. Of course, any dentist engaged to provide temporary cover must do work under their own performer number and must be included in the provider contract's list of performers.

I hope this helps.