§ Mrs. Iris RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what restrictions there are on the rates charged to residents by nursing homes. [166699]
§ Angela SmithThe rates charged to private residents by nursing homes are a matter for negotiation and agreement between both parties. In the case of residents who are supported with public funds it is the Health and Social Services (HSS) Trust that arranges the nursing home placement and agrees to pay an appropriate tariff to the nursing home. Nursing homes may not charge residents for accommodation or care, including the nursing care of private residents paid for by HSS Trusts.
§ Mrs. Iris RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether nursing homes are permitted to charge different residents at differing rates. [166700]
§ Angela SmithNursing homes may charge individual residents different amounts based on the type and extent of care needed and the standard of facilities and accommodation provided. Nursing homes providing care for different classes of resident, i.e. elderly, mental health or other disablement, charge rates that are based on the level of care usually given to the specific class of resident the nursing home is authorised to accommodate. The four Health and Social Services Boards have set regional tariffs that Health and Social Services Trusts will normally pay for the appropriate standard placement for each class of resident. Trusts retain the authority to vary the amount payable where the resident is assessed to require additional services.