The BDA has welcomed steps towards reintroducing an out-of-hours service.

In a statement on its website, the BDA said a letter to GDPs inviting them to sign up to emergency dental clinic rotas would come as a relief to many since the lack of out-of-hours provision had affected GDP and work-life balance.

The organisation said it was vital the service was up and running as soon
as possible.

The rotas will cover only Belfast, South Eastern, Southern and Northern LCG areas – with no provision identified in the West.

The BDA said: “It is important that Western GDPs, via their LDC, take up the offer to engage with the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (formerly HSCB) around what provision they wish to see in place going forward.”

The group added the low rate of remuneration for those who sign up was a cause for concern and would be highlighted in contract negotiations.