Seamus Kirk
Question:11. Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Health the total number of patients that have been staying in acute hospitals for more than three months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48928/12]
View answerThursday, 8 November 2012
Questions (11)
Written answers
The SDU has worked with the Clinical Care Programme on the Elderly and the HSE on proposals for a joint Acute Hospital/Community Service transitional care initiative. This will speed up access and egress from acute care (reducing ED times, length of stay, and delayed discharges). In 2012, this initiative will see 190 transitional care beds being put in place along with 150 rehabilitation beds, with the initial focus being on the Dublin North East and Dublin Mid-Leinster regions. There will also be investment in home supports and funding provided for rehabilitation packages (rehabilitation at home) and home adaptations. €12m has been made available to year end.
This initiative is about improving the patient experience and outcomes for our frail older people. The initiative will also underpin significant savings in bed days through moving from acute beds to transitional and rehabilitation beds and through reduction in the average length of stay for patients in acute beds.
In relation to the specific information sought by the Deputy I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to this matter.