Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour)
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212. To ask the Minister for Health the number of dentists who have indicated they plan to leave the medical card system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13665/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.

Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour)
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213. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to address concerns dentists have with the medical card system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13666/21]

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

I met with representatives of the dental profession towards the end of last year when I had an opportunity to hear first-hand the challenges which they face under Covid, and the enormous efforts of their members in continuing to provide services in the current environment. I accept that the profession has concerns about the current contract, which dates back to the nineties, and that one of those concerns relates to the fee structure under the DTSS.

I want to ensure the sustainability and viability of that contract and that all eligible persons can continue to receive the services that they deserve from their local dentists. In that respect, I have asked my officials and the HSE to bring forward proposals to address the immediate concerns of the dental community. In the longer term, my commitment to the profession and to the public is for a fundamental review of the contract, in keeping with Smile agus Sláinte, the National Oral Health Policy.