Galway Bay fm newsroom - A local TD has voiced concerns over the significant waiting times experienced by some patients for orthodontic assessments in Galway.
Galway East TD Sean Canney has received confirmation from the HSE that individuals may have to wait for up to six months in emergency cases, while routinely it can take up to two years for an initial assessment.
According to figures released by the HSE, there are currently 1,321 patients awaiting an assessment in the city and county.
There are a further 1,845 individuals on the treatment waiting list - with waiting times for urgent cases taking up to one year, and up four and half years for routine cases.
Deputy Canney argues children who may need dental work are being treated unfairly and their confidence is being shattered.
He says the HSE and the Department of Health need to tackle the issue as a matter of urgency.
