Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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196. To ask the Minister for Health if a person (details supplied) qualifies for ophthalmic and orthodontic treatment on the medical card of the person's parent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16633/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Children who are assessed at child or school health examinations as having sight problems are provided with optical services until they reach 16 years. Optical services are also provided free of charge to medical card holders and their dependants. The HSE provides orthodontic treatment to those who have been assessed and referred for treatment before their 16th birthday. Patients are assessed by the HSE Orthodontic Service under the modified Index of Treatment Need. Patients with the greatest level of need are provided with treatment by the HSE.

I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy regarding the individual concerned. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and it will follow up the matter with the executive.