asked the Minister for Health the number of persons covered by medical cards (i) in the country as a whole, (ii) in the South Eastern Health Board area and (iii) in the Tipperary South Community area who are awaiting (a) dental treatment, and (b) optical care; and if he will indicate the average waiting period in each case.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Medical Cards.
10.
The information requested is in the form of a tabular statement which, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to circulate with the Official Report.
Following is the statement:
Position on 1 August, 1977
Dental Services.
|
Awaiting treatment |
Average waiting period (months) |
|||||
|
adults |
children |
adults |
children |
|||
|
Ireland |
27,617 |
24,099 |
10 |
.9 |
9 |
.9 |
|
South Eastern Health Board Area |
3,130 |
4,784 |
4 |
7 |
||
|
Tipperary South Community Area |
1,050 |
364 |
5 |
0 |
.5 |
Ophthalmic Services.
|
Ireland |
13,457 |
4,620 |
5 |
.5 |
4 |
.3 |
|
South Eastern Health Board Area |
1,037 |
711 |
2 |
.75 |
2 |
.4 |
|
Tipperary South Community Area |
447 |
257 |
3 |
.5 |
3 |
.5 |
Could the Minister indicate whether the situation is improving or worsening with particular reference to South Tipperary?
I could not say that it is improving.