Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 May 1999

Vol. 505 No. 3

Written Answers. - Orthodontic Services.

Paul McGrath

Question:

163 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children in the Midland Health Board area awaiting assessment and treatment by an orthodontist; the waiting time at each centre for this treatment; and the measures, if any, he is taking to shorten the waiting lists. [13655/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The provision of orthodontic treatment to eligible persons in the Midland Health Board area and the maintenance of waiting lists is the statutory responsibility of the board. I have had inquiries made of the board. The information requested is as follows:

Centre	Number ofChildren	AverageWaiting Time
Tullamore	177	2 years
Portlaoise	295	2 years
Longford	116	18 months
Mullingar	48	18 months
Athlone	113	18 months

Despite several attempts the Midland Health Board has not been successful to date in the recruitment of a consultant orthodontist. It is continuing its efforts and is hopeful that it will be successful in the near future. The successful recruitment of a consultant orthodontist by the board should enable it to further increase treatment levels and further reduce waiting times.