New Quality Rules for 24-Hour Home Care in 2026

Nationwide Quality Standards for 24-Hour Home Care Under Review by Commission

The Long-Term Care Development Commission is set to discuss the establishment of uniform, nationwide quality standards for placement agencies at its next meeting. This move aligns with the government's coalition agreement and is part of a broader effort to improve 24-hour home care services.

Health and Social Affairs Minister Korinna Schumann (SPÖ) has been driving this initiative, aiming to implement quality assurance measures by February 2026. The commission, established in 2024, will play a crucial role in shaping these reforms, which are designed to update the legal framework for in-home care, initially introduced in 2007.

Karin Hamminger, chair of the Federal Interest Group for Personal Care Agencies (ÖBAP), has called for transparent and expert-led participation from relevant professional associations and stakeholder groups in the commission's work. While placement agency representatives welcome the plan, they have also emphasized the need for greater involvement in the reform process.

ÖBAP has suggested regular, ideally weekly, visits by qualified nursing professionals to monitor clients in 24-hour care. However, financing this would require significantly higher subsidies than the current maximum monthly subsidy of €800. ÖBAP advocates for an increase in this subsidy to ensure quality and prevent caregivers from leaving the country.

The upcoming meeting of the Long-Term Care Development Commission promises to be a significant step towards improving the quality of 24-hour home care services nationwide. With the active participation of relevant stakeholders and a focus on expert-led decision-making, these reforms aim to enhance the care provided to those in need while also supporting the professionals who deliver it.