Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 210: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her plans to improve the orthodontic service in the south east region, and in particular the waiting times. [21512/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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On the 25th September last, I announced the research and development of a new National Oral Health Policy. This new oral health strategy will be undertaken by my Department in conjunction with the HSE. The development of a new strategy will allow a critical examination of the many challenges and issues currently facing the dental sector, including orthodontic services.

In regard to the Deputy's question in relation to waiting times to improve orthodontic services, the position is that the new Programme of Government contains a commitment that orthodontic cases can be referred to the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) by creating an orthodontic fund to treat children who have been waiting the longest for treatment. Officials from my Department will examine the steps involved in advancing this issue while also having discussions with the National Treatment Purchase Fund.