NHI statement re CCPC guidelines re contracts for care in nursing homes
Friday May 10, 2019Nursing Homes Ireland notes today’s publication by the CCPC. This guidance from the CCPC will further support residents and nursing homes. Under the Health Act 2007, nursing homes must agree upon admission a contract with every resident. On an annual basis over 8,000 people enter 580 public, private and voluntary nursing homes and providers agree individual contracts with each individual.
Contracts within every nursing home – HSE, private and voluntary – are required by regulation and are subject to independent oversight and scrutiny by the independent health regulator HIQA. Nursing homes proactively engage with prospective residents and their families at enquiry stage in an open and transparent manner regarding their contract for care. Our Members are committed to a process of engagement, openness and transparency to provide a thorough understanding of the contract and ensure their decision is informed. Such engagement supports both the nursing home and the resident in establishing and maintaining a good relationship. We engaged with the CCPC to inform development of the guidelines and will consider them with view to briefing our Members with regard to supporting residents during a difficult and often stressful time in transitioning to nursing home care.
As presented by the CCPC and stipulated within the regulations, nursing homes charge for services that are not encompassed within the fees payable under Fair Deal. Charges for services excluded from Fair Deal are, by regulation, stipulated within the contract and the services presented. Residents are supported by personalised care plans that are stipulated within their contracts to encompass their needs, preferences and interests.
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