asked the Minister for Health the total number of patients on the waiting list for orthodontic treatment in south Tipperary each year for the period 1980 to 1985; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - South Tipperary Orthodontic Treatment.
65.
The number of patients awaiting orthodontic treatment in 1980 to 1985 in South Tipperary community care area is given in the following table:
|
Year |
Number awaiting Orthodontic Treatment |
|
1980 |
229 |
|
1981 |
340 |
|
1982 |
431 |
|
1983 |
427 |
|
1984 |
628 |
|
1985 |
1,288 |
The steep increase in numbers awaiting orthodontic treatment between 1984 and 1985 is due mainly to the departure from the area of a private orthodontist who had been working for the health board on a sessional basis. The health board is endeavouring to recruit a full time consultant orthodontist which should lead to a marked improvement in waiting lists for orthodontic treatment.