Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:577. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health his views on proposals to increase nursing home charges (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14514/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 15 April 2015
Ceisteanna (577, 581)
Robert Troy
Ceist:581. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health the proposed changes in respect of eligibility under the nursing home fair deal scheme. [14546/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 577 and 581 together.
When the Nursing Homes Support Scheme commenced, a commitment was made that it would be reviewed after three years. This review is being carried out by my Department in collaboration with the HSE, with analysis and recommendations provided by Deloitte & Touche Consultants on specific issues which required specialised expertise.
The review is considering the long term sustainability of the Scheme including funding arrangements. No decisions have been taken nor plans in place regarding changes to the contributions required of residents.
The Review of the Nursing Homes Support Scheme, as well as considering how the Scheme has operated to date, is expected to identify some of the broader issues that will need to be considered and tested more fully into the future, including the future financing of the full range of supports for older people, how community and residential supports and services should be balanced, and whether new care approaches can contribute positively. A continuum of more efficient care might serve to reduce the number of people requiring nursing home care and limit the projected increase in the cost of the Scheme.
The draft Review requires further analysis and this is ongoing at present.