The Department has confirmed it is seeking to commission a new NHS dental provider, following the termination of its contract with Ravat and Ray from 31st March 2018. Efforts by the Department to resolve contractual issues with Ravat and Ray have unfortunately been unsuccessful.
As a result, the Department is seeking to appoint a new dental provider or providers to take over from Ravat and Ray, from 1 April 2018, and a procurement exercise is currently underway.
Patients registered with Ravat and Ray Dental Care will be automatically transferred to the new practice, which may be located in the current premises at the Old Noble's Hospital site, or elsewhere in the Douglas area.
The Department is working with Ravat and Ray to ensure a smooth transition for patients to the new provider and continuation of their care and treatment.
Minister for Health and Social Care David Ashford said:
'I thank Ravat and Ray for the service they have provided since 2015. The Department has closely monitored the provision of NHS dentistry against agreed targets. Our decision to seek a new provider has been the result of careful consideration'.
He added:
'I know that some patients are concerned that they have lost their NHS dentist or that this is privatisation of the service. I can reassure them neither is the case. All the patients will be allocated to the new NHS provider.'
