Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2020
852. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health if there is a difference in the advice given to social care residential homes and settings, specifically those residential care settings for elderly persons and nursing homes versus residential care settings for persons with a disability; the nature of the differences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14446/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, people living in long-term residential care (LTRC) facilities are particularly vulnerable populations in the context of Covid-19 and have been identified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to be at a higher risk of being susceptible to infection from this disease and for subsequent adverse outcomes.
The actions and measures we have taken in Ireland to support long term residential care facilities and their residents have evolved on foot of epidemiological data and guidance from the WHO and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). These measures have been both society wide as well as focused specifically on residential facilities.
Advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) focused on all LTRC settings and its recommended actions are relevant for all residential care services - whether services for older people, for people with a disability or mental health care residential settings.
LTRC settings are people’s homes as well as places where health and social care are provided. It is recognised that the impact of COVID-19 on society in general and especially those living in LTRCs has been considerable. The introduction of physical distancing, restricted contact with family and loved ones and other measures have changed the usual dynamic of social interaction for residents of these settings.
During these times there has been a particular emphasis on retaining a holistic view of the well-being of residents, remaining person-centred, being cognisant of their rights as citizens, and being vigilant that in seeking to shield them from infection that these rights are not infringed upon in to an extent, or in a manner, that is disproportionate.
As the disease is becoming more suppressed in the community, NPHET has advised that the gradual reintroduction of usual activities should commence, while taking public health precautions. This advice is reflected in the latest cocooning and visiting guidance. Detail of this guidance is set out by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre at:
https://www.hpsc.ie.
I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to further details of guidance and advice provided to LTRCs.
