Vol. 475 No. 1
73 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has for the establishment of an independent inspectorate to oversee the operation of nursing homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4339/97]
Limerick East): As the Deputy may be aware, the Health (Nursing Homes) Act, 1990, assigns responsibility for the inspection of nursing homes to health boards. Articles 23.1 to 25.3 of the Nursing Homes (Care and Welfare) Regulations, 1993, give health boards power to inspect nursing homes and premises believed to be nursing homes.
Under the Act all nursing homes are obliged to register with a health board. Before placing a nursing home on the register the health board must inspect the home to ensure that it conforms with the required standard of staffing, accommodation and design. The regulations require the health boards to inspect all homes at least once every six months. In the course of inspections, particular regard is paid to the general welfare and well-being of residents, staffing levels, accommodation and facilities, kitchen facilities, hygiene, sanitary facilities, nutrition, patient records, safety and the prescribing and administration of drugs and medicines. Any identified shortcomings are brought to the attention of the proprietor and the person in charge and homes are duly monitored to ensure compliance with the regulations.
In relation to an independent inspectorate to oversee the operation of nursing homes, it is possible that when the proposed new social services inspectorate is up and running, its remit might be extended to include nursing homes for the elderly.
