asked the Minister for Social Welfare the number of dentists in the Dublin North East constituency who are participating in the scheme to provide cover for spouses of insured workers; the names and addresses of the surgeries of those participating; and if he is satisfied that all constituents are obtaining adequate cover.
Written Answers. - Dental Cover for Spouses of Insured Workers.
93.
A total of 62 dentists in the Dublin area have signed agreements to treat dependent spouses of insured persons. Of the 62, 24 dentists are based on the north side of the city. Dependent spouses living in the area referred to by the Deputy, would generally have access to these dentists.
Overall, of the 670 dentists, approximately, who are active on the Department's dental panel, 222 — i.e. over 33 per cent — have signed agreements covering dependent spouses. Although some dependent spouses may have to travel outside their immediate area to obtain treatment, the overall number of dentists treating this category is considerable and provides a service in most parts of the country. The scheme is operating well, and to date, over 54,200 dependent spouses, mainly women working in the home, have applied to the Department for approval of treatment.
Details of dentists who have signed agreements covering dependent spouses are available at the Department's local offices. Any person who requires dental treatment can obtain details of their nearest participating dentists from these offices or by telephoning the Department. This arrangement has existed since the extension to the scheme and has been operating well. In the context of the ongoing dispute between the dentists and the Department, it is considered that publication of a list of participating dentists would not be in the interests of claimants or the dentists concerned.