Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour)
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2213. To ask the Minister for Health the number of dentists that have notified his Department or the HSE that they are opting out of treating patients under the medical card scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36972/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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There are approximately 1,200 contracted dentists at present providing oral healthcare to medical card holders under the Dental Treatments Services Scheme (DTSS). HSE figures indicate that from the start of the pandemic until the end of April 2021 over 200 dentists left the Scheme or notified the HSE of their intent to leave, with 112 applications for new contracts being processed.

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 am committed to ensuring the sustainability and viability of the DTSS, which will need to be revised to align it with modern evidence. There was an intention to commence a review of the DTSS contract last year. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, this was not possible.

Officials in my Department and from the HSE are currently engaging with the Irish Dental Association on matters relating to the provision of services under the Dental Treatment Services Scheme.