Vol. 415 No. 8
55 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health if he will introduce free screening and treatment for pupils who suffer from the perceptual disfunction known as scotopic sensitivity syndrome; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I am advised that there are serious reservations among the medical profession as to the condition described as scotopic sensitivity syndrome.
Until such time as the condition has been properly evaluated and has been generally accepted by the medical profession it would be premature to provide for screening and treatment.
Under section 66 of the Health Act, 1970 health boards provide child health clinics and national school health examinations at which screening for, among other things, opthalmic defects is carried out. The health boards provide, free of charge, appropriate treatment and appliances in respect of any defects noticed at these examinations including, where necessary, referrals to specialist consultants.
