Romanian Social Services Grapple with Relocated Care Home Residents Lacking Documents, Healthcare

Romanian social services are facing significant challenges in integrating 21 individuals relocated from care homes in Bihor, a situation that highlights systemic failures in elder and vulnerable person care.

The General Directorate for Social Assistance and Child Protection (DGASPC) in Sibiu reported that many of the relocated residents arrived with no medical documents, no health insurance, and some even lacked identification. This lack of basic information severely hinders the ability of social workers to assess their needs and provide appropriate care. Five of these individuals are currently hospitalized for medical evaluations and treatment.

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Many of the beneficiaries arrived without medical documents, health insurance, or even identity papers.

The relocation process itself was hampered by the absence of proper documentation. Residents were often transferred with only temporary identification and a bank card, their medical histories and social backgrounds completely unknown. DGASPC Sibiu has requested special procedures from the National Authority for the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to manage such emergency situations, as current legislation is insufficient.

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The process of taking over the beneficiaries was hindered by the fact that, in most cases, the individuals were transferred with only a provisional identity card and, in some situations, with a bank card, without medical files or documents regarding their social history.

Adding to the crisis, one man transferred from the Bihor facilities to a center in Mureș has died, with the cause of death pending autopsy. In total, 15 of the 409 individuals found in the Bihor centers remain hospitalized. Authorities have had limited contact with relatives, with only 40 family members reaching out for information and none expressing a desire to take their loved ones into their care.

Meanwhile, a criminal investigation into the operation of the care homes continues, with prosecutors alleging that the Pașca family exploited vulnerable individuals. The investigation aims to uncover the full extent of the alleged mistreatment and exploitation within these facilities.

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The cause of death is to be determined following the autopsy.