Sir, Further to the excellent article by David Croser,1 those dentists still treating NHS patients should remember that there are other considerations if withdrawing from treatment.

If actually treating NHS patients, then dentists must be Performers. That means that they are performing treatment on behalf of Providers who are in contract with the NHS to Provide treatment to patients accepted by their practice. The NHS patients are patients of the Provider not the Performer.

If a Performer wants to withdraw from treating an NHS patient then the Provider must see if another Performer in the practice contract can treat the patient. If no other Performer can or will continue the treatment then the Provider must inform NHS England that the treatment is discontinued and tell them the reason (a common reason is irretrievable breakdown of relationship with the practice, or zero tolerance of abuse) and tell NHS England what treatment is outstanding.

Be aware that such patients can complain either to the practice or NHS England and the Complaints Procedure must be followed.