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ECPD: HENRY SCHEIN ONE
Navigating uncertainty and technological change in UK dentistry Henry Schein One presents an analysis of the UK dental sector with Ben Flewett and James Harker, following the release of its white paper: Current and future perceptions of dentistry
Aims and objectives This article aims to provide dental professionals with an understanding of the strategic, regulatory, and technological challenges and opportunities currently shaping the UK dental landscape, as explored in a recent white paper by Henry Schein One. On completing this Enhanced CPD session, the reader will: • Identify the primary drivers of uncertainty in the UK dental sector, particularly concerning ongoing NHS contract reforms. • Understand the strategic shift required in patient management, moving focus from patient attraction to operational efficiency. • Recognise the critical role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced technology in mitigating litigation risk and improving clinical workflow. • Examine the changing dynamics of practice ownership, including the reluctance of associates to become principals, and the competitive viability of independent practices versus Dental Service Organisations (DSOs). Learning Outcome: B, D The latest white paper released by Henry Schein One – Current and future perceptions of dentistry – explores the evolving landscape of the UK dental sector, which the paper describes as “operating within an atmosphere of uncertainty.” In a recent conversation on The Probe Dental Podcast, Ben Flewett (previously of Software of Excellence and now Vice President of Henry Schein One International) and James Harker (co-founder of Dentally and now Executive Director for the UK and APAC regions at Henry Schein One) discussed the report's key findings, the impact of NHS reforms, and the transformative potential of AI.
NHS contract reform and the atmosphere of uncertainty The discussion between Ben Flewett and James Harker frames the current UK dental sector as dominated by an “atmosphere of uncertainty,” a theme driven almost entirely by the impending NHS contract reforms. James Harker specifically highlights the situation in Wales as a key example, where the government has made statements about "rather big things" with “the biggest shakeup of dentistry in Wales for the last 20 years, but without sufficient clarity on how the changes will be implemented.” Major NHS contract reforms are set to come into effect in both Wales and England from 1st April 2026. The uncertainty stemming from this is not merely a philosophical worry; it is a critical, deadline-driven problem. Ben Flewett and James Harker both note that the date for these reforms is accelerating toward the industry with a severe lack of detail. Ben Flewett underlines the alarmingly
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late stage of policy development, stating his concern that we are facing “arguably the biggest amount of change we have seen, certainly in my 19 years in the industry... This is due to take place on 1st April, and we still have not seen the technical specification that we need in order to make necessary changes, which suggests that there is still important detail to be finalised before suppliers can safely implement the changes. This is understandably concerning for practices and suppliers alike.” The absence of this specification means that software providers, and subsequently, practices, cannot adequately prepare their systems or workflows for the new model. The delay and lack of clarity are causing
immense frustration for dental practices, particularly regarding their ability to plan financially and operationally. Harker relays a direct example from a practice owner, who asked him: “How am I going to operate as a business next year? I just want to know so I can start preparing and do my best for my patients and my practice.” This illustrates that the current environment prevents practices from making essential business decisions, such as resource allocation, staff scheduling, and service structure. The impending change is so fundamental that it requires a major transition that the industry is currently unequipped to navigate due to the government's planning deficit.
To complete the questions and gain one hour of Enhanced CPD, visit cpd.the-probe.co.uk/
Patient demand and business strategy The UK dental sector is facing a unique challenge in some areas with too many patients and not enough dental practices to keep up with demand, a reversal from the traditional need to attract new patients. While this statistic is skewed with many seeking NHS care specifically, this shift fundamentally alters a practice's business strategy. Flewett emphasised that, with patient demand already present, the industry's focus must shift towards efficiency to serve the market, especially those in the middle-income bracket. He suggested that high-efficiency practices supported by strong technology workflows are essential to offer “affordable family
The Probe | January 26
12/01/2026 15:02:51