Open to all in the dental industry

Big changes are coming to NHS dentistry in Wales – is your practice ready?

Watch back this on-demand recording of Zoe Close, Lauren Harrhy and Louise Anderson as they discuss the new NHS dental contract for Wales and what it means for you and your practice.

What's it about?

From April 2026, the Welsh NHS dental contract will undergo its most significant transformation since 2006. The Welsh Government recently released long-awaited details of how that looks: UDAs are no more, replaced by a new care-package model switching the focus from activity to needs-based remuneration, segmented funding, and a stronger focus on prevention.

What Zoe, Lauren and Louise discuss:

  • The end of UDAs, current contracts and the introduction of care packages: How the new needs-based model works and what it means for treatment planning
  • Contract segmentation explained: 70% care packages, 10% new patients via the Dental Access Portal (DAP), plus urgent care, prevention, and green patient capitation
  • Financial realities: Hourly rates increasing to £150, capped patient charges, and what practices need to know about lab fees and funding risks
  • Operational challenges: FP17 changes, software readiness (or not!), and managing recalls under the new system
  • Key risks and opportunities: From underfunded green patients to improved quality and prevention incentives.

About the speakers...

Zoe Close, Head of Sales, Practice Plan

Zoe has over 30 years of experience in the dental sector, including working as a group business manager for a corporate group, a dental nurse, a head receptionist, and a practice manager. Zoe is passionate about supporting practices with NHS conversions and can offer invaluable advice on how to strategically and successfully run your business.

 

Lauren Harrhy, Principal Dentist and Owner, Sparkle Dental Centre

Lauren is the Principal Dentist and owner of Sparkle Dental Centre. In addition to her clinical role, she is a strong advocate for the mental health and wellbeing of dental professionals. She is a founding member and current trustee of Confidental – a helpline offering emotional support and crisis signposting for dentists.

Lauren is also closely involved in shaping the future of NHS dentistry in Wales, having taken part in contract reform negotiations. She co-chairs the BDA’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee and serves on several other BDA committees, where she continues to represent and support the profession.

 

Louise Anderson, Regional Support Manager, Practice Plan

Louise has over 30 years of experience in the dental industry. She spent 15 years successfully managing a group of five practices based in South West Wales. Louise has a strong passion for guiding teams through NHS conversions and is dedicated to helping practices thrive through practical advice, hands-on support, and a wealth of experience.

 

Watch the recording

Location Date & Time
On-demand webinar Recorded 10/12/2025

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