Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 February 2022
769. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health his views on the number of dentists participating in the dental treatment service scheme for medical card patients; his views on the sharp decline in number of dentists participating in the scheme since 2019; the number of contracted dentists participating in the scheme who have not carried out activity under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4991/22]
View answerIt is regrettable that a significant number of dentists chose to leave the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS) that provides care for medical card patients during the pandemic, which has led to difficulties for medical card patients in accessing dental care in some parts of the country. In such circumstances, I have been assured that the HSE Public Dental Service is seeking to provide emergency cover for any medical card patients who are experiencing such problems.
I have given a commitment to a substantive review of the DTSS, which will include fees paid to dentists. I have also acknowledged the immediate issues of concern with current arrangements under the Scheme.
Officials in my Department met with the Irish Dental Association in December 2021 to address both of these issues. It is my Department's intention to hold further talks in Q1 of this year.
I would also wish to point out that I secured additional funding of €10 million in Budget 2022 to address immediate issues with the DTSS, which is on top of the annual allocation of €56 million for 2022.
I have asked the HSE to forward the figures requested to the Deputy as soon as possible.
