Gerry Adams
Ceist:394. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health if he is working with a group (details supplied) to revise the dental scheme available to medical card holders. [26680/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 19 June 2018
Ceisteanna (394)
Freagraí scríofa
The national approach to future oral health service provision will be informed by the National Oral Health Policy. The development of the policy included a needs assessment, a review of resources and involved consultation with stakeholders, including dental professionals and the public. The policy is currently being finalised and I expect it will be published later this year.
The aim of the policy is to develop a model of care that will enable preventative approaches to be prioritised, improve access, and support interventions appropriate to current and future oral health needs.
It is my intention to progress the development of appropriate contractual proposals on the part of my Department and the HSE once the oral health policy has been published. This will be a necessary precursor to a process of engagement with the Irish Dental Association on the future delivery of oral health services.