Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 1

Written Answers. - Orthodontic Service.

Enda Kenny

Question:

156 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the guidelines currently in existence for orthodontic treatment; the proposals, if any, he has to clarify these guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15353/97]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

I have forwarded a copy of my Department's 1985 guidelines on the provision of secondary care orthodontic treatment to Deputy Kenny. These are the guidelines currently used by the health boards.

My Department, in consultation with the health boards and their consultant orthodontists, is currently reviewing these guidelines. The objective of this review is to ensure equity in the provision of orthodontic treatment throughout the health boards having regard to the additional resources provided to health boards over the past few years under the dental health action plan for developments in orthodontic services.