Written answers

Tuesday, 17 May 2016

Department of Health

Dental Services Expenditure

Photo of Louise O'ReillyLouise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein)
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862. To ask the Minister for Health the cost of extending an annual oral examination to ensure universal cover; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10360/16]

Photo of Simon HarrisSimon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides access to dental treatment for medical card holders over the age of 16. All medical card holders are entitled to specific dental treatments, including an annual dental examination. The Minister for Social Protection is responsible for the Dental Treatment Benefit Scheme (DTBS), which provides an annual dental examination to insured workers and retired people who have the required number of PRSI contributions. The full cost to the State of providing free dental examinations for all adults would depend on the cost of contracting such services on behalf of the State and the take-up of the service. The current fee for an oral examination paid to contracted dentists in both Schemes is €33.

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. All HSE dental clinics prioritise emergency care for children up to 16 years of age, treatment for special needs patients and screening of children aged from 11 to 13 years, including referral for orthodontic services where necessary. Other services, including screening of children 6 to 8 years, are provided but may be deferred in clinics where there is pressure on resources. Future service provision will be informed by the National Oral Health Policy, which the Department of Health is currently developing. This three-year project commenced in 2014 and is being led by the Chief Dental Officer. The project includes a needs assessment, a review of resources and involves consultation with stakeholders, including dental professionals and the public.

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