Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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204. To ask the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a large number of children are awaiting orthodontic treatment in the midlands Health Service Executive area and that no consultant orthodontist has been appointed; the steps he is taking to have this vacancy filled as soon as possible to enable the persons on the waiting list to be treated; the steps he will take to ensure children who qualify for treatment and have not received that treatment by the age of 18 years will be treated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23847/14]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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An independent national review of orthodontic services, commissioned by the HSE, has recently been completed. The key issue highlighted by the review is that the Orthodontic Service should be fully integrated within the Primary Care Service. This is under consideration by the HSE to be implemented as part of the HSE's Transformation Programme. Pilot schemes, which will involve the use of orthodontic therapists, are currently being introduced. It is expected that these changes will have a positive impact on waiting times nationally. The HSE has been asked to examine the specific queries raised by the Deputy concerning the Midlands Area and to reply to her as soon as possible.