Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2013
1420. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health if he will reinstate sufficient number of staff in all Health Service Executive areas to ensure patients of the HSE's public dental service and orthodontic service have access to equitable services irrespective of geographical location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37769/13]
View answer1421. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health if he will engage with the Irish Dental Association on the reconfiguration of the Health Service Executive's Public Dental Service and Orthodontic Service to ensure any changes fully reflect the best interests of the patient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37770/13]
View answer1422. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health if he will introduce a national oral health policy, which provides equitable access to a range of treatments required to achieve and maintain optimal oral health for all citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37771/13]
View answer1425. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health if he will reinstate the Health Service Executive vocational training scheme in dentistry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37775/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1420 to 1422, inclusive, and 1425 together.
The Government has decided that the numbers employed across the public service must be reduced in order to meet its fiscal and budgetary targets. The health sector must make its contribution to that reduction. However, the HSE can make staff appointments once it remains within its overall employment ceiling and has the financial resources to do so.
The HSE has commissioned an independent review of orthodontic services. The outcome of this review, which is near completion, will give guidance as to what changes will be desirable to provide the best possible model of care delivery, given the current resources available and future demand for services.
The HSE National Oral Health Lead was released to the Department for two days each week to undertake the functions of Chief Dental Officer, with effect from 20 May 2013. Among the priorities for the Chief Dental Officer is the need to review certain aspects of oral health policy. The Department of Health will engage with the public, the Irish Dental Association and other relevant stakeholders in developing oral health policy, ensuring equity of access and prioritisation of patients with greatest needs.
