Edward Nealon
Question:222 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Health if she will outline (a) the number of children awaiting orthodontic treatment in the North-Western Health Board area and (b) the average duration of the waiting period.
Written Answers. - Orthodontic Treatment.
I understand from the North-Western Health Board that 257 children are currently on the board's waiting lists of orthodontic treatment. All cases are assessed for treatment by the health board in accordance with the guidelines issued by my Department and the most severe cases are treated as a matter of priority. The average waiting time for the less severe cases varies from three to eight months.
The board are currently recruiting a consultant orthodontist which will considerably enhance the orthodontic services provided by the board.