The development of orthodontic managed clinical networks in the united kingdom

Abstract

Managed clinical networks were developed in the UK as an alternative model of healthcare delivery. They are said to focus on the patient journey making best use of available resources, improving access and the quality of care. They are based on a concept pioneered in Scotland and have recently been introduced into dentistry. This paper reviews the historical background and structures of existing UK orthodontic networks. Clinical Relevance: The recent introduction of managed clinical networks into orthodontics is designed to improve equity of patient access and the quality of care. It is also said to have economic benefits, with services designed to cross geographical, political and National Health Service (NHS) boundaries, providing a way of achieving full coverage of specialist services beyond historical provision based in major population centres. The key principles ensure quality assurance and standardized evidence-based care aiming to improve clinical standards and, ultimately, the allocation of resources.