Complaints Procedure
In the first instance, patients are advised to complain to the dental practice and allow the staff to handle the complaint and deal with it using the in-house complaints procedure as trained. If the complaint is not resolved to the Complainant’s complete satisfaction, further advice and help is available.
Where else can you seek advice and help?
Private Patients Complaints Service
This service is provided by the GDC and it aims to resolve complaints quickly and efficiently by relying on telephone communication and acting as an advocate for the patient.
If the complaint cannot be resolved, the Dental Complaints Service (DCS) will convene a panel which will hear both from the complainant and the dentist. After considering the information put forward by both parties, the Panel will either uphold or dismiss the complaint.
If the complaint is upheld, the Panel can suggest a financial remedy, which tends to be either a refund of the fees paid, or less commonly, the cost of the remedial treatment.
If you wish to take your complaint further you can contact the General Dental Council (GDC)
Via the website – www.gdc-uk.org
By letter – 37 Wimpole Street, London W1G 8DQ
By Telephone – 0208 253 0800
