Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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290. To ask the Minister for Health the steps that he is taking to secure follow-up care for children of an orthodontic practice (details supplied) in Galway which received up-front payments of up to €4000 for treatments; the number of children involved; his engagement with the HSE and the Dental Council on this; the coverage to be provided through the practitioner’s insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45230/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I am concerned at the situation that has arisen for patients of the orthodontic practice in Oranmore and their families. As this case is the subject of “in camera” High Court proceedings there are restrictions on the extent of information that can be made available.

Since this situation first came to the attention of my Department in the middle of August, my focus has been the continuity of care of patients, and my officials have been consulting with stakeholders across the dental profession to enable and support a solution for patients. I met with patient representatives and local representatives on 8^thSeptember to hear their specific concerns and consider what can be done to support these patients.

The normal course of events would be that orthodontic practices are wound down in an orderly fashion when necessary and for patients to continue to receive care in other practices. To support patients to receive continuity of care, the Dental Council has written to orthodontists located nearest to the practice to seek their co-operation if former patients of the Oranmore practice seek their help.

The Orthodontic Society of Ireland (OSI) is advising the public that it is coordinating with its members and the appropriate bodies to seek ways to resolve this situation to ensure that ongoing care is restored as soon as possible.

However, I appreciate that presently parents feel this transfer of care is taking time and are very concerned. In view of this my officials and I will continue to explore all options available to us to help secure the continuity of care for the affected patients of Oranmore Orthodontics.