Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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693. To ask the Minister for Health the number of children on waiting lists for child dental services at a hospital (details supplied); the average waiting time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23673/21]

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.

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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694. To ask the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a dental practice (details supplied) is withdrawing its service for medical card holders from June 2021; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that other practices are taking the same action; the way he plans to provide a dental service for medical card holders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23679/21]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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742. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide advice in relation to a matter (details supplied) regarding medical card patients. [23902/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 694 and 742 together.

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. Patients may choose to have their treatment undertaken by any dentist who participates in the Scheme.

I am aware that there has been a reduction in the numbers of dentists participating in the DTSS since the beginning of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Some people are experiencing problems in accessing a service close to their home, however, I have been assured by the HSE that their local services on the ground will assist any persons who are experiencing problems in accessing a service.

I want to ensure the sustainability and viability of the DTSS so that all eligible persons can continue to receive the services that they deserve from their local dentist of choice. My commitment to the profession and to the public is for a review of the Scheme, in keeping with Smile agus Sláinte, the National Oral Health Policy. I have asked officials in my Department to engage with the Irish Dental Association on all of these matters.