Doctors Press For All-Ireland Policy On Elderly Care

The medical profession across the island of Ireland is calling on their respective governments to lead the way in radically improving standards of care for older people.

The British Medical Association Northern Ireland, BMA(NI), and the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) have today launched a joint policy document in Stormont.

It sets out 11 cogent recommendations which, if implemented, would have a significant impact on the standards of care for older people on the island of Ireland. The joint document was introduced at the launch by NI Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey.

'Care of Older People on the island of Ireland' calls for specific cross-border initiatives that improve healthcare for older people; full integration and coordination of healthcare services' the recruitment and retention of skilled healthcare staff as a priority for all agencies and specific 'person-centred care' as well as improved communication in the delivery of healthcare to older people.

It also seeks care that is 'tailored to an individual's need' as well as more support for carers; better social inclusion of older people in society; high standards of care in all healthcare settings; seeks that nutritional care is made a priority and that the promotion of positive mental health initiatives are highlighted.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Brian Patterson, Chairman of the BMA's NI Council, said: "Our two organisations want to see change in the access and delivery of care to older people.

"Our common cause is that the older population throughout the island of Ireland should have access to care which is of the highest quality, is equal and available to all on the basis of need and is delivered with respect and due regard to the dignity of patients.

"We also want to see our respective governments put in place reciprocal agreements that would allow older people living close to the border to be funded for long-term or other care."

Highlighting further some of the 11 recommendations, IMO President Dr Martin Daly said: "Older people should also be involved in the planning of their care - this is essential if we're to give meaning to the principles of respect, informed choice and dignity.

"We are also calling on our respective independent monitoring organisations to make sure that not only are minimum standards met in all healthcare settings but they are exceeded. Immediate action should be taken against care facilities where this falls short."

Both the IMO and the BMA(NI) have made it clear they want to work constructively with government, policy makers, healthcare providers and other stakeholders to ensure there is equity of access to high quality healthcare for all older people on the island of Ireland.

(BMcC)