Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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1215. To ask the Minister for Health the reason a child whose parents have a medical card and requires dental fillings is put on a waiting list which can take several years whereas an adult in a similar situation can have two fillings without having to go on an extensive waiting list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25287/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Dental services for children up to 16 years of age are provided by the Public Dental Service (PDS) 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. 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 e.g., an annual dental examination, two fillings in each calendar year, extractions as necessary. Additional treatments are available to persons with specific medical conditions including persons in receipt of care or services for a disability and persons on a register of disability.

The HSE prioritises the level and nature of services provided within each service or scheme within existing resources. The services available in the DTSS are not the same as those available to children under 16. The National Oral Health Policy, which the Department of Health is currently developing, will inform future provision of dental services. This project is being led by the Chief Dental Officer and includes a needs assessment, a review of resources and involves consultation with stakeholders, including dental professionals and the public.