The family of an elderly relative in a private nursing home has forked out almost €2,500 on medication when it should have been free, a Sinn Fein TD has claimed.
It comes after almost 600 facilities nationwide are to receive a warning from the State’s consumer watchdog about imposing potentially unfair terms and costs on vulnerable residents.
Deputy Imelda Munster said: “I am aware of many cases where private nursing homes are charging elderly residents fees for items and services that they are legally entitled to as full medical card holders.
“I know of one case where the family of an elderly person was charged almost €2,500 over a 15-month period for medicines and bandages.
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“This is completely unfair and it is unacceptable. Holders of medical cards are entitled to these services free of charge.
"If items are not covered under the medical card, nursing homes can apply for assistance under the Hardship Scheme, so there is no excuse for residents to be receiving bills.”
After an 18-month review of nursing home care contracts, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has published new contract guidelines and have told providers of care that they should review contracts to ensure they are legally compliant.
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The CCPC found in some nursing homes, changes had been made to contracts without consultation with the resident or their family.
The Louth TD added: “This blatant discrimination has to stop. We have to protect elderly people living in nursing homes.”
