DENTISTS who offer discounted treatment deals must not forget their responsibilities to patients, the General Dental Council has said.
The GDC issued the reminder in the wake of the increasing number of cut-price offers made available via email and online by companies such as Groupon and Living Social.
The regulator highlighted its guidance that warns dental professionals not to make claims that could mislead patients and requires practitioners to be trustworthy and honest, ensuring financial interests are not prioritised ahead of patients’ interests.
Dental professionals who breach guidance could face action to restrict or stop them practising, the GDC added.
The regulator said: “If a GDC registered dental professional offers a treatment deal he or she must assess the patient, obtain valid consent, obtain a medical history and explain all the options before carrying out any work. Registrants must put patients’ interests before their own or those of any colleague, organisation or business.”
The GDC is currently drawing up draft guidance on ethical advertising as part of its review of Standards for dental professionals. Click here for more information.
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.
Save this article
Save this article to a list of favourite articles which members can access in their account.
Save to library