Jan O'Sullivan
Question:136 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if hospices are included under the remit of HIQA; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32820/07]
View answerWednesday, 5 December 2007
Questions (97)
Written answers
The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) was established in May 2007, as part of the Health Reform Programme. The Authority had been operating on an interim basis since 2005. HIQA will be working to ensure that there will be national standards across the major programmes of care. The functions of and legislative framework for HIQA are set out clearly in the Health Act 2007.
A core function of the Authority is to set standards on safety and quality of services and to monitor compliance on the part of the HSE and service providers with these standards in an open and transparent way.
Other functions of the Authority include:
Undertaking investigations as to the safety, quality and standards of services where it is believed that there is a serious risk to the health or welfare of a person receiving services.
Carrying out reviews to ensure best outcomes/value for money for the resources available to the HSE.
Providing for assessments of health technologies.
A central role in health information development and the implementation of the recommendations set out in the National Health Information Strategy.
Evaluating information available on services provided by the HSE and other service providers and on the health and welfare of the population, identifying information deficiencies, and advising the HSE and Minister accordingly.
Any standards made by HIQA in respect of palliative care will apply to any hospice which is operated by the HSE or on its behalf by a service provider.