COVID-19 support payment discussions or arrangements: FOI release

Information requested

1. A copy of the internal Scottish Government document sent to PSD regarding COVID-19 dental support in May 2020, referenced in my payment response but not provided to myself.

2. Details of financial support and payment mechanisms for dental practices between September 2020 and March 2022, including any guidance issued to PSD or Health Boards.

3. Information on current Health Board discussions or arrangement concerning ongoing or delayed COVID-19 support payments.

Response

While our aim is to provide information whenever possible, in this instance, we have asked for clarification on part 1 of your query, however the response provided by you was not sufficient clarification and the Scottish Government was not able to complete part 1 of your request.

Additionally, the Scottish Government does not hold the majority of the information you have requested. This is because details of financial support and payment mechanisms provided to dental practices, PSD and Health Boards are delivered through circulars. These can be found online at:

• Scottish Dental
• Access Scottish Government circulars (PCA) and other regulatory publications | National Services Scotland

Under section 25(1) of FOISA, we do not have to give you information which is already reasonably accessible to you. If, however, you do not have internet access to obtain this information from the website(s) listed, then please contact me again and I will send you paper copies.

To date, there are no ongoing discussions or arrangements regarding ongoing or delayed COVID-19 payments. As such, I hereby provide you with formal notice under section 17(1) of FOISA that the Scottish Government does not have some of information you have requested.

About FOI

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at https://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.