Families urged to seek waivers for nursing home fees

FAMILIES of nursing home patients are being advised by the ombudsman they are entitled to seek a waiver on charges from the Health Service Executive if they are experiencing financial hardship.

Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly welcomed the decision of the HSE to reduce nursing home charges payable by the daughter of an elderly lady from €100 to €76 per week.

“A weekly reduction of €24 in nursing home charges can make a genuine difference for someone on a low income and ease the burden of paying for nursing care,” said Ms O’Reilly.