Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 290: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding the provision of dental treatment for medical card holders; her plans for medical card holders who can only receive emergency treatment at present; the difficulties that are arising as a result of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25596/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Government's decision to limit the funding available to the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS) was made in view of the current position of the public finances and the 60% increase in expenditure in the DTSS over the past five years. The Health Service Executive (HSE) has introduced measures to contain DTSS expenditure at the 2008 level of approximately €63 million.

Under the new measures the range of treatments available are being prioritised. Some treatments which had previously been available in the Scheme, for example, dental cleaning and polishing have been suspended. Other treatments, such as oral examinations and fillings, will continue to be provided but will be limited in number or frequency. More complex, non-routine treatments, such as protracted periodontal treatments, will be available only in the case of clinical emergencies. While I understand that the suspension or reduction in some services will cause difficulties for some patients it is important that those with greatest need take priority. These measures have been introduced to protect access to emergency dental care for medical card holders and to safeguard services for children and special needs groups. The HSE will monitor the ongoing effect of these changes from a clinical and budgetary perspective. The dental and oral health services currently provided through the HSE Public Dental Service will not be affected by these changes to the DTSS.