The Nursing Home Support Scheme, also called the Fair Deal medical scheme, is a financial assistance program offered by the Irish government to aid people in need of long-term nursing home care. The scheme was introduced in 2009 to replace the old nursing home subvention scheme, and since then, it has been a source of assistance for many Irish citizens. So, in this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about the Fair Deal nursing home scheme.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Fair Deal Scheme, the applicant must be assessed as requiring long-term nursing home care. The applicant must undergo care needs assessment, which is carried out by a member of the HSE's health or social care team. This assessment will determine the level of care required and the applicant's financial and medical eligibility for the scheme.
Financial Assessment
The financial assessment of the applicants is to understand their contribution towards the cost of their care. It also considers your income, assets, and liabilities. If the applicant has a spouse or partner, then it also examines their joint assets and income. The applicant needs to contribute a portion of their income and assets towards the cost of their care. The applicant's amount is calculated based on a sliding scale, with those with higher incomes and assets contributing more. So, keep this point in your mind while applying for a fair deal in Ireland.
Fair Deal Application Process
You can either apply for the Fair Deal Scheme's application process online or submit a paper application to the HSE. The application will require details about the applicant's income, assets, and liabilities, as well as information about their care needs. Once the application has been received, the HSE will carry out a care needs and financial assessment. If the applicant is deemed eligible for the scheme, they will be placed on a waiting list until a suitable nursing home becomes available.
Choosing a Nursing Home
When a nursing home becomes available, the applicant will be notified and given the opportunity to choose a nursing home that meets their needs. The applicant is free to choose any nursing home that is registered with the HSE and meets the criteria set out in the fair deal nursing home scheme. Once a nursing home has been chosen, the HSE will enter into an agreement with the nursing home on behalf of the applicant. The HSE will then pay the nursing home for the cost of the applicant's care, and the applicant will be expected to contribute their portion of the cost.
Conclusion
The Fair Deal scheme has provided assistance to many Irish citizens who require long-term nursing home care. The scheme aims to make nursing home care more affordable and accessible to those who need it, and the application process is straightforward. If you or a loved one requires long-term nursing home care, it is worth exploring the option of the Fair Deal medical scheme. For those in need of long-term care, the scheme can make an impact on their quality of life by providing financial aid.