Background
In 2025, the Welsh Government undertook a public consultation on proposed reforms to the NHS General Dental Services (GDS) contract in Wales. The consultation sought views from patients, dental professionals and organisations on changes to access arrangements, contract structures, payment models, and patient charges.
Miller Research was commissioned to carry out an independent analysis of the consultation responses. The purpose of the work was to ensure that the views collected were independently reviewed and presented clearly to inform the next phase of dental policy development in Wales.
Methodology
The analysis applied a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques to review more than 6,400 responses. Closed questions were analysed to identify trends and levels of agreement, while open comments were coded thematically to capture key issues and insights. Responses were examined across stakeholder groups, including members of the public, dental professionals, and representative organisations. This provided the Welsh Government with a clear and balanced understanding of the range of perspectives and experiences shared through the consultation.
Findings
Respondents to the consultation widely recognised the need for change within NHS dental services in Wales, particularly in relation to access to care. Many members of the public reported difficulties in securing appointments, concerns about waiting times and issues around the affordability of treatment. Dental professionals were generally supportive of reform but raised concerns about how the proposed changes to payment models might affect the financial sustainability of practices and the delivery of complex care.
Respondents also expressed strong views about the principles that should underpin reform. Many felt that prevention and early intervention should be prioritised, and that patients with the highest clinical need should receive timely access to services. Others highlighted the importance of continuity of care and maintaining trusted relationships between patients and dentists. The findings reflect the perceptions of those who responded and point to areas where communication, clarity and engagement will be important as the reforms progress.
Impact
By providing an independent analysis of consultation responses, Miller Research helped the Welsh Government understand stakeholder perceptions and identify the key themes shaping views on reform to inform the next stage of NHS dental policy in Wales.
The full summary of consultation responses is available here.