The ordinance establishing the new rules on the reimbursement of users who benefit from home support services provided by the "Santa Casa da Misericórdia" and Private Social Solidarity Institutions was published today in the Official Journal.
 
The amendments now introduced aim to promote the expansion of services to the people who need, overcoming some economic constraints insofar as beneficiaries will be required to reimburse expenses with their financial capacity.
 
In this context, the calculation of the amount to be reimbursed will take into consideration the income of beneficiaries as well as the volume of expenses, including medication, rent, utilities (water, electricity, gas and telephone), among others.
 
The Government of the Azores wants to ensure that the amount  paid by users is the best that suits their financial situation, which will allow that the elderly or dependent people may have access to a more complete and comprehensive service without jeopardising their ability to meet other basic needs.
 
These amendments fall within the restructuring programme of the home support service developed by the Government of the Azores. This process is based on a proximity work with institutions providing this service and intends to ensure adequate conditions in terms of nourishment, personal hygiene, clothing and monitoring of people with less autonomy so that they can remain in their family environment.