Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 15 Feb 2000

Vol. 514 No. 3

Written Answers. - Orthodontic Service.

Seán Ryan

Question:

192 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will report on the problems in providing orthodontic treatment for first and second level students within area 8 of the Eastern Health Board; the number of referrals awaiting an initial appointment; the number awaiting treatment; the number receiving treatment who have been affected by the problems in this area; and the way in which he will resolve this important issue. [4007/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

The provision of orthodontic treatment in the Dublin 8 area is the statutory responsibility of the Eastern Health Board.

The Eastern Health Board experienced difficulties in the provision of services in their regional orthodontic unit at St James's Hospital in the past few months. I understand these difficulties were caused by the consultant orthodontist's unilateral decision to withdraw from the provision of orthodontic assessments, orthodontic opinions and the commencement of orthodontic appliance therapy for new patients. The position was exacerbated by the withdrawal of consultant cover and the consultant orthodontist's refusal to provide guidance to dental clinicians regarding orthodontic procedures. The consultant orthodontist's actions led to her suspension from duty with effect from 4 November 1999.

At the subsequent request of the Eastern Health Board, my predecessor in office terminated the suspension of the consultant orthodontist in question and she resumed duty on Monday 7 February 2000. Normal service will be resumed as soon as possible.

The current waiting list for orthodontic assessment in area 8 consists of 19 patients in category A and 869 patients in category B. I regret to inform the Deputy that the other statistical information requested is not maintained by the Eastern Health Board in the form required.