James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 519: To ask the Minister for Health the reason medical card holders are not fully covered for dental treatment, in view of the fact that they are not in a position to meet private costs, to the detriment of their dental and physical health; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32192/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Unfortunately, due to the current position of the public finances, it has been deemed necessary to reduce the services available under the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS). However the Health Service Executive (HSE) has measures in place to ensure that patients with special needs, high risk patients and those who have greater clinical needs receive priority for treatment. In addition, a free oral examination every calendar year and free emergency dental treatment with a focus on the relief of pain and sepsis are available to all eligible patients. The individual case in question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.