Dr. Joe Green:

Yes. The are other options, assuming the criteria are retained.

There is a threshold, as Mr. Healy stated. The HSE provides orthodontic treatment for the most severe and complex cases. An assessment system is in place through which a decision is made in respect of each child referred from the dental service. We are considering initiatives to increase capacity of the regional orthodontic departments through an expansion of the number of specialists and the possible introduction of the grade of orthodontic therapist to the HSE. Orthodontic therapists are important members of the dental team who work directly with specialist and consultant orthodontists. It will allow us to increase quickly the capacity of the service. We are currently in discussions about that and we hope to introduce the grade in the regional orthodontic service next year. There is work to be done.