Donegal kids wait months for orthodontics 08.10.07

DONEGAL children are waiting months to have their teeth straightened, a local backbencher has revealed. Deputy Niall Blaney also called for the speedy inclusion of child orthodontics under the National Treatment Purchase Fund. He said the commitment to do so is included in the Programme for Government and should be delivered as soon as possible.

“I personally know of many cases in Donegal where young children are waiting months for treatment and this is not acceptable. Nationally, there are 10,000 people on waiting lists," said Deputy Blaney. “I am aware that the delay to children
receiving orthodontic treatment is distressing both to the children and their parents. “Treatment is lengthy and children and parents are inevitably anxious to begin as soon as possible once they become aware of the necessity for it.” The National Treatment Purchase Fund has reduced some surgical waiting lists to three months, said Deputy Blaney. "Reduced waiting lists not only ensure that surgeries are carried out sooner but also help to reduce the anxiety of the patient and their families. “I will be keeping in touch with the minister on this issue and I am hopeful that this commitment will be met sooner, rather than later,” he added.
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