The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has released 32 inspection reports, focusing on care quality in designated centers for individuals with disabilities. These inspections are conducted by the Health Act 2007 (Care and Support of Residents in Designated Centres for Persons (Children and Adults) with Disabilities) Regulations 2013 and the National Standards for Residential Services for Children and Adults with Disabilities, which apply to residential services for people with disabilities in Ireland.
Among the 32 centers inspected, 22 centers were managed by various providers including Breacadh Nua, Avista CLG, Brothers of Charity Services Ireland CLG, Camphill Communities of Ireland, COPE Foundation, GALRO Unlimited Company, and the Health Service Executive (HSE), demonstrated a commendable level of compliance with the regulations and standards.
Highlights and Challenges Found in Recent Inspections of Disability Centers
Inspectors noted several instances of good practice in these centers. For example, at a facility in Wexford under the management of An Breacadh Nua, a staff exhibited a keen understanding of residents’ communication needs. Dignity and respect were consistently upheld during the inspection.
Similarly, at a Dublin center operated by Camphill Communities of Ireland, human rights were promoted through dedicated committees and comprehensive staff human rights training. Staff emphasized the importance of considering residents’ perspectives and actively listening to their voices to make a positive impact.
In Cork, under the management of the COPE Foundation, residents were provided with support for communication tailored to their individual choices and needs. All residents had recently undergone communication assessments to ensure the effectiveness of their chosen communication methods, which were consistently implemented by staff.
However, inspectors identified areas of non-compliance with the regulations and standards in 10 centers operated by four providers. At one HSE-operated center, ongoing concerns were raised about the impact of inadequate premises on residents. Residents also had limited access to activities, and their healthcare needs were not being effectively monitored. In another HSE center, improvements were needed in medication management, and yet another required premises enhancements.
In three centers managed by Avista CLG, poor governance and management arrangements had negative repercussions on residents’ daily lives. The Chief Inspector took immediate action in two of these centers to ensure the safety of residents and their finances.
HIQA Reports Reveal Governance and Management Issues in Disability Centers on Care Quality
Issues related to governance and management were identified in four centers operated by Brothers of Charity Services Ireland CLG. These centers needed further improvements in various areas, including safeguarding, fire safety, and premises quality.
The release of these inspection reports by HIQA highlights commendable examples of good practice and areas where improvements are essential. It underscores the continuous effort required to ensure the well-being and quality of care for individuals with disabilities in residential settings. Providers and authorities must work together diligently to address deficiencies and uphold the highest standards of care for vulnerable individuals.
Resource: HIQA, December 06, 2023
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