Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 March 2014
270. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the reason primary school children who are in need of routine checks from clinical dentists are not able to avail of such visits and can only be seen if they actually have a problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11489/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Public Dental Service of the HSE provides dental services for children up to 16 years of age and persons of all ages with special needs through its dental clinics. All HSE dental clinics prioritise emergency care for children up to 16 years of age, treatment for special needs patients and screening of children aged from 11 to 13 years, including referral for orthodontic services where necessary. Other services, including screening of children 6 to 8 years, are provided but may be deferred in clinics where there is pressure on resources. The HSE Public Dental Service has recently been re-structured. It is intended that the new arrangements will facilitate standardisation of services available nationally.
I have asked the HSE to reply directly to the Deputy on dental services for school children in Co. Kerry.
