List Numbers

The List Number issued is for use at only one location. You need a different list number for each location you carry out NHS treatment.

What are the different types of list numbers? 

Temporary number:  This is used as a stop-gap when one dentist has left the practice and another permanent dentist is coming in to take over patient care.  The practice will apply for a temporary number to keep the list of registered patients separate (capitation and continuing care payments will continue) and to provide necessary treatments. Temporary numbers are usually assigned to the Principal dentist in the practice.

Commitment Payment number:  This is for the sole purpose of quarterly Commitment payments to each dentist, totally separate from their Item of Service and Dental Allowances.  The Commitment payments go into a bank account of their choice (not paid into a practice bank account) and is for the individual dentist’s benefit.  It is a loyalty payment for staying in the NHS, based on years of service and gross earnings.

Ordinary number:  This is the standard number issued to a dentist to submit Items of Service (IOS) and registration claims for payment.

Assistant number:  This is for a dentist who is joining a practice, is working under the principal and will be paid a salary.  They might be of an age where they are not allowed to hold a list number in their own right and so work under an assistant number.  Also, many ortho practitioners have a principal who does the treatment planning and others (assistants) carry out the work on their behalf.  An overseas dentist who has not done a VDP (Vocational Dental Practice) year would work under supervision.

Emergency number:  This number is not assigned to one particular dentist, it is more for general use in emergency clinics or 'drop-in' centres.  This type of number is more about the NHS Board providing a service that is not available through the area dentist's normal working practices.

Trainer number:  This is the number a practitioner would hold for their Vocational Trainee to practice under.  The number is used by the one trainee (usually for one year, from 1 August to 31 July), but the number is owned by the trainer dentist, as they are responsible for supervision. Trainers are given a new trainer number each year.