asked the Minister for Social Welfare the number of dentists who have refused to operate the extended dental scheme for the spouses of insured workers; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that in the Dungarvan area of County Waterford, there are no dentists operating the scheme; the steps, if any he intends to take to ensure that a service is provided in this and other areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Extended Dental Scheme.
74.
There are approximately 630 dentists active on the Social Insurance Dental Panel at present. The number operating the extended dental scheme has been steadily growing and now stands at 150. Some 477 dentists have not as yet agreed to provide dental treatment to dependent spouses under the extended scheme. Three dentists have refused. There is not yet an adequate number participating in the extension to provide treatment under the scheme to all qualified dependent spouses at locations reasonably convenient to where they live. This includes the Dungarvan area.
In order to assist dependent spouses in obtaining benefit, it has been arranged that they will be supplied with the names of their nearest participating dentists if they contact their local social welfare office or telephone the Department. This arrangement is operating well.
With a view to resolving the problem with the dentists, I met the Irish Dental Association twice in 1987. I explained to them the Government decision to extend the scheme. When we last met, on 30 November 1987, we agreed to set up a Joint Working Group, comprising representatives of the Irish Dental Association, to examine all aspects of the Social Insurance Scheme within the budgetary constraints and having regard to the Government's decision. The working group is to report to me by 30 May 1988.