Confidential information leads to call for independent investigation into HSE braces scandal

In Health by Denis Naughten

Calls for an independent investigation into issues surrounding the sale of second-hand braces by a HSE dentist were made in the Dail today (Wednesday) by Denis Naughten TD.

The call came after Denis Naughten revealed that he has received confidential information which alleges that a number of issues surrounding the matter remain unresolved.

dentist“There is an urgent need for an investigation to be carried out by someone independent of HSE West to establish when allegations of this practice were first known; what action was taken and when; and also to identify any risks that may exist regarding infection and to make the results public as soon as practicable,” stated Denis Naughten. 

This follows revelations that second-hand braces, which should have been incinerated, had been sold by a HSE dentist to a private orthodontist who was then charging parents for treatment.

“Such an investigation is needed to establish whether the HSE’s actions on learning of this practice were in line with its own policies on infection control and patient safety. We must know how long this practice had been going on and when it was first brought to the attention of authorities. We also need to know where these braces were going and the steps which have been taken to trace the children involved,” added Denis Naughten.

“As both Minister of State Alex White and the HSE are aware the information that has come into my possession in recent times raises very serious questions regarding a range of issues including the action taken by the HSE on being made aware of this practice being carried out by one individual dentist but, most importantly, it raises extremely serious questions regarding the exposure of patients to the risk of infection. 

“This information raises very serious questions regarding a range of issues associated with this matter and I would urge Minister White to act on these as a matter of urgency and to establish an independent investigation.

“Those who may have received the second-hand braces through private treatment have a right to know whether they have been affected by this practice, whether there are associated health-risks and, most importantly, whether appropriate action was taken to prevent such a practice from occurring. 

“The Minister must act now to establish an independent investigation without delay.”