The aged care sector is set to undergo significant changes with the introduction of the New Aged Care Act. These reforms aim to address the evolving needs of older people, enhance the quality of care, and improve accessibility to aged care services. At HCPA, we understand the importance of providing high-quality care. By registering or growing your business in the Aged Care scheme, you can offer a broader range of services and reach a larger audience.
In this article, we will explore the critical aspects of the upcoming reforms and their potential impact on the aged care industry while highlighting how HCPA can assist providers in navigating these changes.
Single Entry Point for People Wanting Care:
The New Aged Care Act will introduce a single-entry point to simplify accessing aged care services. The current system can be complex and confusing, making it challenging for older individuals to navigate. The new integrated assessment tool will consolidate all assessment avenues into one system, providing care seekers with a streamlined and user-friendly experience.
Defining High-Quality Care:
The new aged care act will define “High-Quality Care” to reflect its usage in the legislature. It emphasises delivering services with compassion, respect, and dignity, considering each person’s individuality, life experiences, and self-determination. HCPA offers consulting services that ensure providers align their practices with the draft definition, ensuring the delivery of exceptional care.
Draft Definition:
Delivery of aged care services to a person in a manner that prioritises:
- Delivery of services with compassion and respect for the individuality, life experiences, self-determination and dignity of a person accessing care and their quality of life.
- Providing trauma-aware and healing services informed and responsive to the person’s expressed personal needs, aspirations, and preferences regarding how services are delivered to them.
- Facilitating regular clinical and non-clinical reviews to ensure that the services offered continue to reflect their individual needs.
- Supporting the person to enhance their physical and cognitive capacities and mental health where possible.
New Statement of Rights:
The new aged care act will accompany a new Statement of Rights replacing the Charter of Aged Care Rights. This comprehensive document will outline the rights and entitlements of individuals accessing aged care services, ensuring transparency and empowering older people to make informed decisions about their care. Our compliance services can guide providers in understanding and implementing these rights effectively.
Reformed Complaints Process:
The new aged care act will introduce a new complaints process that will see a new complaints commissioner and a single system for all complaints related to aged care.
New Provider Registration Scheme:
The upcoming reforms will also bring changes to the provider registration scheme. The current three categories will be replaced with six new ones, allowing for greater flexibility and inclusivity. Non-corporations, such as sole traders and partnerships, will also have the opportunity to register for specific categories. Furthermore, existing providers will be granted an automatic registration period, ensuring continuity of care during the transition.
HCPA currently supports a range of Aged Care providers; we offer growth advisory services to guide providers through registration, helping them navigate the complexities and maximise their potential.
The upcoming reforms in aged care represent a significant step towards improving the quality and accessibility of aged care services in Australia. Introducing a single-entry point, a defined concept of high-quality care, a new Statement of Rights, a reformed complaints process, and an updated provider registration scheme all contribute to a more transparent, person-centred, and accountable aged care system. These changes aim to enhance the overall experience of older individuals and their families, promoting a higher standard of care and well-being.
As the New Aged Care Act moves forward, all stakeholders in the aged care sector must stay informed and prepared for the upcoming changes. By embracing these reforms, we can collectively work towards creating a more inclusive, responsive, and compassionate aged care environment that supports the needs and aspirations of our aging population.
HCPA is an all-in-one solution for aged care providers, supporting them with registration, growth and consulting. Contact us now at https://www.hcpassociation.com.au/contact or call 03 9084 7472 to learn how we can help you succeed.
SOURCES | Department of Health and Aged Care “Developing a new model for regulating aged care” |
