Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2015
151. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that there are no unfair financial burdens imposed on applicants and their spouses in the review of the fair deal scheme; if he will examine correspondence (details supplied) from Age Action Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15083/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhen 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 are there 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.
