§ Mr. BurnsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if the Government will ensure the criteria for free nursing care apply to all patients suffering from dementia and Alzheimers; and if he will make a statement. [91552]
§ Jacqui SmithPeople with dementia who are assessed as needing care in a care home that provides nursing care, will receive an appropriate level of national health service funding to their care consistent with the level of nursing input, on the same basis as residents with other conditions.
Draft supplementary guidance on NHS funded nursing care was issued for consultation on 20 December 2002. This makes specific reference to the importance of NHS nurses considering the mental health needs of patients as well as their physical health needs.