PA Consulting Group was commissioned by the HSE to undertake a review of Orthodontic Services. The terms of reference were to:
- assess the current delivery system and
- make recommendations for the future organisation and management.
The review commenced in November 2012 and was completed in late 2013. The key issue highlighted by the review is that the Orthodontic Service should be fully integrated within the Primary Care Service. This will be implemented as part of the HSE's reform programme. The HSE has also recently established a pilot scheme which will involve the use of orthodontic therapists. In addition, over the next three years orthodontic treatment for certain categories of misalignment will be provided by a panel of independent practitioners under contract to the HSE. A tender process is currently underway and is due to be ready for commencement in January 2015. It is expected that these changes will have a positive impact on waiting times.
The HSE has been asked to examine the query raised by the Deputy concerning the patient on the waiting list and to reply to him as soon as possible.