asked the Minister for Health the number of adults currently on the waiting list for dental treatment in Counties Mayo, Galway and Roscommon; the number of dentists in each county; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Dental Service.
142.
In Galway 375 adults are listed as awaiting dental treatment and in Mayo the figure is 5,154. The waiting list in Roscommon is now clear.
There are: 36 dentists, including 11 health board dentists in Galway, 21 dentists, including 8 health board dentists in Mayo and 15 dentists, including 3 health board dentists in Roscommon.
I am satisfied that using dentists in private practice to supplement the services provided by health board dentists is an effective way to provide such services for eligible adult patients. The dramatic improvement in the waiting list position in Galway and Roscommon clearly illustrates this.
I have recently made proposals to the dental profession which I am confident will lead to greater participation by private dentists in the health board services and in turn to a further improvement in services for adults throughout the whole country.