Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 July 2021
412. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the reason persons in care homes are not allowed indoor or home visits; the HSE guidelines in relation to the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28827/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is important to note that nursing home providers are ultimately responsible for the safe care of their residents. Under Regulation 11 of the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations 2013 it is the legal responsibility of each registered provider to make arrangements for a resident to receive visitors, having regard to any risks that may present for the resident or other residents. Under these regulations the person in charge shall ensure that in so far as is reasonably practicable, visits to a resident are not restricted, unless such a visit would, in the opinion of the person in charge, pose a risk to the resident concerned or to another resident, or the resident concerned has requested the restriction of visits.
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre published new visiting guidance on 23rd April, which came into effect on 4th May. This provides additional opportunities for residents in long-term residential care facilities to receive visits and participate in social and recreational outings. Residents may now be facilitated to receive four routine visits per week. This will be possible following two weeks after the full vaccination of approximately 8 out of 10 of all residents in the nursing home. In the absence of a high level of vaccination of residents, two visits per week should be facilitated unless there are critical or compassionate circumstances that require increased frequency of visiting.
A copy of the latest guidance can be accessed at www.hpsc.ie. As noted by the HPSC, restrictions on visiting should only be applied on the basis of the relevant guidance and a documented risk assessment that is reviewed regularly in view of the evolving public health situation and new guidance. Visiting by the resident to a private home outside of their nursing home is also possible and should comply with public health restrictions that apply to the general public at the time.
Although the situation in nursing homes has greatly improved, the risk associated with COVID-19 remains very real. There is still a risk of introduction of infection, including the possibility of a new variant of COVID-19, against which the vaccine may be less effective. Therefore, caution remains appropriate. At all times vigilance on the general infection prevention and control measures must be maintained and public health advice must continue to be followed, including when visiting, to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect those living in our communities.
I have written to HIQA and all nursing home providers to emphasise the need to ensure visits take place to the greatest extent possible in line with the new guidance. I have also encouraged providers to communicate frequently and clearly with residents and families on the matter of visiting.
I would like to reassure the Deputy that the guidance will be kept under continuing review as new evidence and data emerge.
