Expansion of DTSS welcomed in Waterford

New measures are to provide extended dental health care for medical card holders in Waterford.

News of the expansion was welcomed by Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD who said the significant expansion of services will assist Waterford’s medical card patients in accessing an increased level of dental care.

“Approval has been given for increases in the fees payable to contracted dentists for a number of items, including examinations, fillings and the reintroduction of cleaning (Scale and Polish) for medical card patients,” Minister Butler said.

According to the minister, the proposals are designed to address not only issues around services for medical card patients in Waterford and throughout the country, but also the concerns expressed by dentists about the viability of the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS).

“I am particularly encouraged by the reintroduction of the Scale and Polish to this scheme. Professional dental cleanings are important preventative procedures in maintaining one’s oral health in the longer term. It is really positive news that such services will be more readily available to medical card holders in Waterford as a result of this expansion of services.

“Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly TD, has also committed to a root-and-branch review of the Dental Treatment Service Scheme to align the Scheme with the National Oral Health Policy,” Minister Butler concluded.