Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 156: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she has set eligibility terms to be followed by the Health Service Executive in providing access to a home care package; and the terms being applied. [33198/08]

Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Home Care Packages form a key component of the Government's strategy of supporting older people to live at home and in their communities for as long as possible. Home Care Packages are an additional support over and above mainstream community services and are designed to enhance rather than replace existing home support services.

The Initiative was formally introduced by the Government in 2006, taking account of a proposal of the Report of the Long-Term Care Working Group to develop non-residential supports for older people. The Home Care Package Initiative was introduced on an administrative basis and the delivery of packages is intended to be flexible and responsive to the needs of individuals. Referrals for HCPs can be made by an individual, by his or her representative or a range or health care professionals. A package may be provided following assessment by the Health Service Executive of a person's individual needs and means. The Executive prioritise those at-risk of admission to long-term care or inappropriate admission to acute hospital.

My Department recently advertised for an independent evaluation by consultants of the Home Care Package Initiative, which is expected to be completed early in 2009. It is intended that this Evaluation will make an important contribution towards future policy and service development for home care services for older people.