The new Operational Guidance for Northern Ireland is currently being finalised following the publication of a new Dental Appendix.
In summary, this moves away from a default Level 2 PPE position to two pathways – respiratory and non-respiratory, introducing an approach largely based on risk.
We need to know your views of what impact this is likely to have in practices.
We also want to gather your views on how the pandemic is continuing to impact the delivery and business of dentistry in Northern Ireland, and to understand the impact this has had on your own well-being.
There is also expected to be a short Department of Health consultation regarding compulsory vaccination for new staff. It comes alongside the arrival of the Omicron variant in the UK and its many unknowns. While the vast majority of dentists are vaccinated, there is a need to address the issue of vaccine hesitancy among some staff. We need your views on this too.
The information you provide is crucial in enabling us to make your case to the Department of Health.
So if you’re an associate or practice owner in Northern Ireland, and whether working in health service, private or mixed practice we want to hear from you. The evidence you provide will enable us to make informed arguments on your behalf.
There are twenty questions in the survey – which should take an estimated five minutes.