Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 May 2016
202. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding the Health Information and Quality Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9121/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) started to regulate residential services for people with disabilities on 1 November 2013, pursuant to Statutory Instrument No. 366 of 2013 and Statutory Instrument No. 367 of 2013, which assign responsibility to HIQA for registering and inspecting residential services for children and adults with disabilities, including respite services.
HIQA has advised the Department that speaking to residents and their representatives, including family members, is an important part of its inspection process. In advance of registration inspections, HIQA sends posters and information leaflets to registered centres so that residents and their families are aware that inspectors will be there should they wish to speak to them. Because of the nature of unannounced inspections, it is not possible to give residents or their families advance notice of the inspection; however, inspectors are always interested and willing to hear the views of families. There have been instances where families were not able to meet inspectors at the time of inspection but have phoned HIQA and spoken to inspectors at a later date.
The views of residents are very important in any inspection and inspectors seek opportunities to speak to residents. Where residents are not able to verbally express their views, inspectors spend time with them observing the quality of their day-to-day interactions and supports. Inspectors consider the views of residents when making their findings; however, HIQA also acknowledges that the resident’s voice in inspection reports could be enhanced. HIQA is currently reviewing how it reports on the findings of its inspections, particularly in this regard.
