Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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312. To ask the Minister for Health if the matter on charges being levied on medical card holders by dentists and opticians will be clarified; if these additional charges can be claimed back from his Department (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37554/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The HSE provides dental care free of charge to medical card holders aged 16 and over under the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS) . These services are provided by independent dental practitioners who have a contract with the HSE.

The HSE also provides an eye care service to medical card holders through the Community Ophthalmic Services Schemes. The service is provided by ophthalmologists, optometrists and dispensing opticians who have a contract with the HSE. This service offers free eye examination and glasses, if required.

There is no provision under these Scheme for the charging of additional fees to patients. Any inappropriate charges by contracted healthcare providers should be reported to the HSE for investigation.