Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 20 Nov 1997

Vol. 483 No. 2

Written Answers. - Orthodontic Service.

David Stanton

Ceist:

49 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will give details of the waiting lists for assessment and treatment for orthodontic treatment of children at St. Finbarr's Hospital in Cork; whether his Department will make resources available to deal with these lists; if so, when he will take action in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19854/97]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The provision of orthodontic services for eligible children at St. Finbarr's Hospital, Cork and the maintenance of waiting lists is the statutory responsibility of the Southern Health Board.

I have been advised by the Southern Health Board that the number of children currently on the assessment waiting list at St. Finbarr's Hospital is 4,856. The number currently on the treatment waiting list is 2,236. The board has also advised that children in category A, the category of greatest need, receive immediate treatment. For other children the waiting time for treatment is 18 to 24 months. The waiting time for assessment varies, depending on the community care area in which they are resident. There are very short waiting periods for assessment in north Cork and Kerry. For west Cork and Cork city it is 18-24 months.

My Department has provided funding to the board for the development of its orthodontic services in accordance with the dental health action plan.

I stated in reply to the Deputy's previous question of 15 October 1997 that the board was reviewing its position regarding the provision of orthodontic services and considering a number of options, including the temporary appointment of a senior registrar and registrar. I have now been advised by the board that the post of registrar was advertised last weekend.