Local Dental Committees (LDCs) in England and Wales were established in 1948 and became statutory bodies under the NHS Act 1977. Primary care trusts/health boards consult with LDCs on matters of local dental interest and, following the NHS reforms in 2006, local commissioning and developments in the provision of NHS dental services. LDCs will also make nominations to or may be consulted about membership of certain committees of the Primary Care Organisation.
In Scotland while health boards do consult LDCs, the role of the LDC does not have a statutory basis.
There are over 130 LDCs in the UK.
Who do LDCs represent?
LDCs represent dentists with a General Dental Services (GDS) Contract (providers or performers) or who are on a performers list list within the LDC's boundary. LDCs can also represent dentists in the NHS salaried services, but this is usually a matter for discussion locally.
Regional groupings/federations of LDCs
In England LDC Secretaries and Chairs meet on a regional basis to discuss issues affecting the profession. These Regional Groupings have formal constitutions and adhere to Strategic Health Authority (SHA) boundaries.
LDCs involved in these groupings find them a very useful way of developing communication across the locality, while maintaining an individual LDCs autonomy. The BDA would encourage any LDC not currently part of a grouping to consider joining or forming one in their area. For information on how to do this please contact Will Newport.
Getting involved in the work of LDCs
Are you a primary care dentist interested in becoming involved in dental politics at a local level?
If yes, why not contact your local LDC Secretary or the BDA for more information?
Further information
For further information on any of the articles contained in the LDC pages, or for the contact details of the LDC secretary in your area please contact Will Newport or call 020 7563 4158.
