The provision of orthodontic treatment and the maintenance of waiting lists in the Southern Health Board area are the statutory responsibility of the Southern Health Board.
Orthodontic services in the Southern Health Board are being developed in accordance with the Dental Health Action Plan. The Dental Health Action Plan provides for the development of a consultant-led service by each health board. A consultant led service ensures a service of high quality and high service levels.
I have had inquiries made of the Southern Health Board. I understand that the waiting list for orthodontic treatment is currently 3,220. The Southern Health Board is currently treating patients who were placed on the treatment list at or after September 1996. The waiting period for persons on the treatment waiting list is therefore two years and four months.