Dáil debates

Thursday, 19 January 2017

Topical Issue Debate

Dental Services Provision

4:55 pm

Photo of Helen McEnteeHelen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue of dental services in Drogheda and south Louth, which I am taking on behalf of my colleague who sends his apologies.

Dental services for children up to 16 years of age and persons of all ages with special needs are provided by the public dental service of the HSE through its dental clinics. HSE dental clinics provide a screening and fissure sealant programme for children at key stages of development, corresponding with sixth class and second class in primary school and fourth class where resources are available. The service includes referral for further treatment, including orthodontic treatment, where necessary. Emergency care for children up to 16 years of age and treatment for special needs patients are also provided.

The issue raised is an operational matter for the HSE and officials in the Department of Health have contacted the executive regarding services in Drogheda and south Louth. I am informed by the HSE that in 2016 the HSE public dental service had four surgeries in Drogheda, as the Deputy correctly pointed out, two in Haymarket and two in Ballsgrove. Unfortunately, in mid-2016 the two surgeries in Haymarket were closed due to flood damage. Services in Drogheda were then limited to the two surgeries in Ballsgrove. Unfortunately, on 26 December 2016 there was a fire at Ballsgrove. Although it did not damage the dental surgeries, it has resulted in the health centre being closed until the fire damage is repaired. As a result, there are currently no dental clinics available in Drogheda.

Alternative arrangements have been made for patients to access services in the nearest available clinics. Currently, all emergencies and routine dental cases for Drogheda and south Louth patients are being catered for in Duleek, Ardee and Dundalk. The potential for minibus transfer for patients with lack of access to transport is being explored by the HSE. I will try to get a further update for the Deputy on that. The public dental service will continue to provide screening, referral and intervention to children in sixth, second and fourth classes. Emergency care will continue to be provided also. The HSE has advised, however, that it is unlikely that decontamination and infection control standards acceptable to the Dental Council would be achievable in a mobile clinic. Such a mobile service could, at most, be used for examinations. However, examinations can be carried out in local schools if necessary. The HSE is closely monitoring the situation on a day-to-day basis. It considers that the arrangements in place are more acceptable and beneficial to patients.

A new dental clinic is due to open in Drogheda in the next six months. It is expected that the opening of this new facility will provide a long-term solution to the difficulties currently being experienced. I have asked the HSE to keep the Deputy updated and to provide a further update to the Deputy of the position as of 31 January 2017.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.