§ Mr. HammondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what criteria he will use to determine the ability of registered care homes, within the meaning of the Care Standards Act 2000, to provide nursing care to residents. [155411]
§ Mr. HuttonThe Care Standards Act 2000 defines a care home as any home which provides accommodation together with nursing or personal care for any person who is or has been ill (including mental disorder), is disabled or infirm, or who has a past or present dependence on drugs or alcohol.
Care homes providing nursing will be required to meet the "Care Homes for Older People—National Minimum Standards" published on 2 March 2001. Nursing input will be determined using a recognised assessment tool, according to departmental guidance which is currently being prepared. National Health Service registered nurses will calculate the amount of nursing input for which the NHS will pay. In care homes providing nursing, the registered manager will have to be first level registered nurse and, by 2005, have a relevant management qualification, as well as having at least two years experience in a senior management capacity in managing a relevant care setting within the past five years.