Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 December 2013
425. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health if, under the terms of the fair deal nursing homes support scheme, it is permissible for nursing homes to set a standard monthly charge for extras on top of the residents' stated fees; if nursing homes are required to produce an itemised description of such additional charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51596/13]
View answerThe Nursing Homes Support Scheme provides financial support towards the cost of long-term residential care services in nursing homes. The services which fall within the scope of long-term residential care are:
- nursing and personal care appropriate to the level of care needs of the person;
- bed and board;
- basic aids and appliances necessary to assist a person with the activities of daily living; and
- laundry service.
Goods and services that are already available to individuals under an existing scheme are not included in the goods and services covered by the Nursing Homes Support Scheme (i.e. as this would involve effectively paying twice for the same items or service).
A person's eligibility for other schemes, such as the Medical Card Scheme or the Drugs Payment Scheme, is unaffected by the Nursing Homes Support Scheme.
Incontinence wear, where required, is provided free of charge by the HSE to all Nursing Homes Support Scheme residents that possess a Medical Card.
Part 8 of the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations 2009 stipulates that the registered provider of the nursing home must agree a contract with each resident within one month of their admission. This contract must include details of the services to be provided to that resident and the fees to be charged. Residents should not be charged fees which are not set out in the contract.
