Howden, the modern dental insurance specialist

Spot the difference

To make the right choice of provider, you need to understand the differences between the policies on offer.

Dental professionals can choose from Discretionary or Contract-based cover.

Discretionary policies mean that, should you need legal and/or financial assistance in the event of a claim being made against you, this will be given at the discretion of the provider. Likely, this provider will be a Mutual Defence Organisation (MDO). A not-for-profit organisation owned by its members, a MDO will consider each case individually, before agreeing to provide support. The wording of discretionary policies does not state specifics and this, MDOs say, removes grey areas and gives flexibility.

On the other hand, if you opt for contract cover, you will be able to see precisely what is – and isn’t – included. Your policy will be worded in such a way that clearly defines its terms which means that it can be tailored to you and it guarantees that you will be covered for all terms stated in the policy should a patient successfully pursue a claim against you.

Another significant difference between discretionary and contract-based cover is that MDOs and the like are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA); providers of contract cover are. This also means that contractual insurance policy holders are eligible for compensation via the Financial Services Compensation Scheme should the insurer be unable to cover the cost of a claim.

So, with these definitions now clear, what should you choose?

Insurance that works for you

Howden is a dental indemnity and insurance specialist that offers strong, contract-backed policies for dentists and DCPs. We believe that once you know the differences between discretionary and contract cover, you’ll be confident that the latter is the best route for you.

That’s when you should speak to us!

At Howden, we have been working with the dental industry for over 25 years. We have seen many changes in that time, which is why we think our offering is modern, relevant and what you need. We base our approach on the 3Cs – Confidence of Cover that is Cost–competitive. In other words, you can get on with the job you love, knowing you are well protected and that you aren’t paying too much for high-quality indemnity.

Because we understand both insurance and dentistry so well, we know the pressure that receiving a claim can put a professional under, along with the rest of the team and their family and friends. Complaints and claims are a fact of life and patients are being encouraged to speak up if they’re dissatisfied with the care they’ve received. Historical complaints and claims are becoming more common too. This is why we offer a mental health helpline, as well as a medico-legal helpline, for all our clients.

Should you receive a complaint, even the most experienced dental professional may have no idea what to do first! When you are with Howden, call us straight away and know we’re on your side from day one.

Our packages can be tailored to your individual circumstances and are suitable whether you’ve been working for 20 years or two. That’s where Confidence comes in. No matter what you do, or how long you’ve been doing it, Howden will take good care of you. Also, don’t worry that switching will leave you unprotected, because we have 10-year run off as standard.

Don’t risk your career, livelihood and emotional health – and don’t spend more time stressing over insurance and indemnity that you need to! With affordable premiums and a quality service, call the team at Howden today.

For more information, please visit www.howdengroup.co.uk or call 020 3918 912.

Howden Insurance Brokers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in respect of general insurance business. Registered in England and Wales under company registration number 725875. Registered Office: One Creechurch Place, London, EC3A 5AF