Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Jan 2001

Vol. 529 No. 1

Written Answers. - Orthodontic Service.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

749 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children in County Wicklow currently awaiting orthodontist treatment; the length of time the largest number for the list has been awaiting treatment; if any people have been taken off this list for private treatment to be paid for by the health board; if so, the way in which the selection process was arrived at; the plans he has to deal with the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2587/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The provision of orthodontic services to eligible persons in County Wicklow is the statutory responsibility of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. I have asked the director of corporate services of that authority to investigate the position in relation to this case and to reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

750 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children his proposals of grant or tax credit for personnel on Eastern Region Health Authority orthodontic waiting list; when he expects this to be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2588/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The Department has approved a proposal from the Eastern Regional Health Authority for a grant-in-aid scheme. Under the scheme, patients who meet the criteria laid down for non-urgent routine treatment will be given the option of availing of treatment from a private orthodontic practitioner. A grant of 50% of the board's overall estimated cost of treatment would be paid. Parents could also avail of tax credits on the balance where appropriate. A grant of 100% of the board's estimated cost of treatment would be paid in respect of medical card holders.

The scheme will operate on a pilot basis in the Northern Area Health Board for 12 months. A working group on the implementation of the scheme within the board is being established. The group has set a target date of 1 April this year for the implementation of the pilot scheme.