Michael Finucane
Question:230 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Health if she will outline (a) the number of children awaiting orthodontic treatment in the Mid-Western Health Board area and (b) the average duration of the waiting period.
Written Answers. - Orthodontic Treatment.
I understand from the Mid-Western Health Board that the number of children awaiting orthodontic treatment is 997.
Children are assessed for treatment on the basis of a scale of severity and children who qualify for treatment are placed on a treatment waiting list. The average waiting period is two to 2.5 years. However, urgent cases such as cleft palate and other serious conditions are seen and dealt with immediately.