Noel Ahern
Question:63 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Health the reason for the delays in the Eastern Health Board area for orthodontic treatment, in particular in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [3597/95]
Written Answers. - Orthodontic Service.
Limerick East): The waiting lists for orthodontic treatment in the Eastern Health Board area are maintained by the health board who are responsible for the provision of the orthodontic services.I am aware that, despite an increase in service provision, the numbers on the waiting list are considerable with consequent long waiting periods for most persons on the waiting lists.
The board is addressing this issue and is developing the service with additional funding which I have provided for the dental health action plan. Unfortunately, the health board has experienced considerable difficulty in retaining the services of orthodontists at consultant level. I understand, however, that the board hope to have a consultant in post very shortly. The board is also awaiting a response to advertisements for a further two consultant appointments.
My Department had discussions with the board in November last and agreed with the board a framework for the development of a consultant-led orthodontic service in accordance with the strategy outlined in the dental health action plan. Under this strategy the board will develop its orthodontic service with the objective of providing services at a level to meet the need for treatment.
As the provision of orthodontic treatment to the person in Dublin 9, who is the subject of the Deputy's inquiries, is a matter for the Eastern Health Board I have asked the chief executive officer of the board to reply to the Deputy in the case as a matter of urgency.