Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1866. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health if he will take action to address the lengthy waiting lists for public orthodontic treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43340/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe waiting list for the orthodontic service is maintained based on chronological date of referral and clinical need. Some children are given priority for treatment if the severity of their case requires it.
In 2021, the HSE commenced a new procurement that allows patients to have treatment with private Specialist Orthodontists. The Waiting list plan initiative for 2022 included €11 million in funding to be made available for identified community initiatives, including a focus on orthodontics.
A HSE orthodontic treatment waiting list initiative in 2022 will see Children and Young People assessed as Grade 4 who have been waiting over 4 years for treatment at a cost of €2.8m. As of 30 August, 884 children and young people have been taken off the orthodontics waiting list using private providers under this new procurement framework. It is anticipated that the orthodontics waiting list initiative will continue to the end of the year.
The option of the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme may be available to patients who have a urgent clinical need for treatment. The Scheme allows patients to choose to go to Northern Ireland for treatment. This option is managed through a National Service and has a separate funding structure to the Orthodontic Service. If a patient opts to avail of orthodontic treatment through the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme the patient is discharged from the HSE Orthodontic Service.
