Willie O'Dea
Ceist:19. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Health the plans in place to improve and expand health services for older people in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61176/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 8 December 2022
Ceisteanna (19)
Freagraí scríofa
Next year the overall funding available to the HSE for Older Persons will exceed €2.4 billion. This includes nearly €1.1 billion for Fair Deal. This represents an increase an overall increase of 25% since 2020.
I have secured additional investment of almost €12m for new measures next year. The Healthy Age Friendly Homes initiative will be rolled out nationally and the Meals on Wheels service will be expanded at a time when the most vulnerable need these services most. A wide range of core services will be provided for older persons including home support, day care, community supports in partnership with voluntary groups and intermediate care as well as long-stay residential care when remaining at home is no longer feasible.
In line with our Programme for Government commitment the continued expansion of home care hours and progressing development of a statutory scheme for the regulation and financing of home support services is a key priority in 2023. So too, is the establishment of the National Home Support Office. I am pleased to say that the dementia-specific proportion of new home support hours will increase from 5% in 2021 to 15% in 2023.
The National Service Plan 2023 has been submitted for Minister Donnelly’s approval. This is under consideration. Once approved, it must be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas within 21 days. The HSE will then ensure its publication at the earliest possible time.