22nd March 2021 GG&C LDC Update

22 March 2021

FFP3 Expiry; Election Results, LDC Conference, Emergency Drugs Kits, AstraZeneca Assurances

  1.  URGENT ACTION REQUIRED: 3M 1863 MASKS WILL EXPIRE 31ST MARCH
    • The  3M 1863 masks were discontinued last year and the revalidated supplies that were provided to dental practices will expire on MARCH 31st 2021.
    • You must dispose of any unused stock after this date (as domestic waste).
      • The 3M 1863+ masks (note the subtle ‘+’ at the end) are not affected.
    • It is essential that all clinical team members are moved on to an alternative FFP3 mask as soon as possible.
    • There have been regular Webropols circulated to practice generic inboxes inviting team members to fit to the Alpha Solway H mask (the main alternative).
      • Please continue to share these emails with all team members.
    • If you have failed on the Alpha Solway H mask you must now email a request to arrange an alternative mask fit test on the Alpha Solway HX (larger size). Other types will become available should you fail on this one also.
  2. LDC (GP Sub) ELECTION RESULTS
    • The results of the LDC elections are now published on our website.
    • Congratulations to those who were successful. We look forward to welcoming new members at our April meeting.
  3. OXFORD ASTRAZENCA VACCINE ASSURANCES
    • The CMO today sent a letter with assurances about the safety and effectiveness of the Oxford Astrazenica vaccine.
    • As health care professionals, all dental team members should be actively reinforcing the public health messages around the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.
  4. CONFERENCE OF SCOTTISH LDCs
    • The Annual Conference of Scottish LDCs is taking place on April 23rd 2021
    • The conference is the single most effective way by which GDPs can steer policy at the Scottish Dental Practice Committee (SDPC)
      • Firstly, prior to conference, LDCs from across the country submit their motions.
      • Secondly, the motions are debated and then conference delegates are asked to vote for or against them.
      • Lastly, the successful motions are then passed to SDPC to be adopted as policy.
    • GG&C LDC always represent strongly at conference and this year is no different.
      • We are now in the process of finalising our motions.
      • Our motions are always based on the issues and concerns that have been raised by our constituents.
      • If you ever have any concerns you would like us to raise then please do contact us.
    • This diagram shows how Scottish Dental Politics fits together (both locally and nationally).
  5. EMERGENCY DRUGS KIT
    • Tayside Pharmaceuticals is now to be known as PSS (NHS Scotland Pharmaceutical ‘Specials’ Services)
    • PSS posted an update 19th March relating to Buccal Midazolam
    • Epistatus buccal midazolam now has too short a shelf-life to be included in the kits that PSS (Tayside) provide.
    • “PSS will revert back to supplying 2 syringes of each of the strengths (2.5mg, 5mg, 7.5mg, and 10mg) of the Buccolam product. We will also change the manufacturer of the Adrenaline injection for anaphylaxis to further extend the shelf life of the box.”
    • “The price of the box will need to increase to £220.00. This change will however extend the shelf of the box beyond one year. Please note PSS is not a commercial organisation and any price increases are not for profit.”