Dublin hospitals told: If someone is homeless, you can't discharge them

The protocol is expected to be implemented during the first quarter of this year.

THE HSE HAS been told by the Government to ensure that no patient is discharged into homelessness.

It’s understood the new rules will initially apply to Dublin hospitals only.

The HSE told TheJournal.ie that it’s currently developing a formal discharge protocol with hospitals in the Dublin area and the homeless services to ensure that no patient will be discharged from hospital into homelessness.

The HSE expects the protocol to be implemented during the first quarter of this year.

It comes as figures for yesterday afternoon showed 427 people were waiting on trolleys in hospitals across the country.

Dublin Region Homeless Executive has welcomed the new rules saying it’s important proper care and case management takes place.

Read: There was a queue of people waiting to use Dublin’s new homeless café when it opened last night>

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More