Dental Protection has appointed Raj Rattan MBE as the new Dental Director, to succeed Kevin Lewis who steps down in summer 2016. Mr Rattan has over 30 years’ experience in dental practice and has been associated with Dental Protection for over 20 years, first as a dentolegal adviser and more recently as a senior dentolegal consultant.

Mr Rattan is also Strategic Associate Dean at the London Deanery and he uses his extensive knowledge and experience to inform and open debate through his published articles, books and international lectures on risk management, quality assurance and practice management. In 2008, Mr Rattan was appointed MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List for services to dentistry and he is former Policy Adviser to the Department of Health.

Speaking on his appointment, Raj Rattan said:

“It is a huge privilege to be given the opportunity to lead a very talented team who are dedicated to dentistry. There are over 100 members of staff and consultants in Dental Protection in the UK, with an enormous breadth of expertise and experience. We also have colleagues who serve dental members in Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and the Caribbean. Members should be reassured that if they face a difficult situation that arises out of their practice, they will receive assistance from experienced dentists with legal training, who will help them at every stage. 

“Having been in practice for over 30 years, I understand our members’ fears, aspirations and the issues they are facing. We are here to support and educate members, and protect them from risk throughout their career.

“I look forward to working closely with my colleagues in helping to shape a better future for our dental members and for the profession, by listening to their concerns, working closely with key stakeholders and continuing to provide tailored courses and events. I believe that by helping dentists in their professional careers, we are also creating a happier and safer environment for patients.

”I also want to take this opportunity to thank Kevin Lewis for not only his strong leadership and personal friendship, but also his sense of purpose that has made Dental Protection what it is today. I want to build on this past success and focus on providing a world class service for our members so that together we are better prepared to meet future challenges.’’

Pardeep Sandhu, Executive Director of Professional Services at MPS, said:

“I am extremely pleased that Raj is to lead our dental services; his vast experience and knowledge of the sector will be invaluable for both colleagues and members.

“For the dental profession the threat of patient complaints and litigation has never been greater, both in the UK and internationally. Thankfully, our members have access to the largest team of dentolegal advisers anywhere in the world, with a wide range of skills and expertise in every aspect of clinical and professional life. I am certain that Raj will lead Dental Protection to continue to provide the expert advice, support and education that dentists need throughout their career.”