Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 November 2023
58. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health how the extra funding of €4.6 million in Budget 2024 will increase the provision of transitional care to make sure that older people get the care they need leaving hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48617/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs of 31st October, the HSE reported there were 550 Delayed Transfers of Care in hospitals of which 245 people were waiting on residential care.
It is important that people receive the care they need in the setting most appropriate for their needs. Transitional Care Funding is a significant resource in facilitating the discharge of patients from hospital to a setting appropriate to their needs. Demand for the service is high.
In Budget 2024 I secured an additional €4.6 million in core funding together with a further €17.4 million on a once of basis for next year. The temporary nature of some of the allocation will be reviewed following an update of the guidelines relating to Transitional Care Funding in 2024.
The type and quantum of services to be provided next year by the HSE, including transitional care will be considered as part of the National Service Planning process.
