Perth welcomes additional 60 beds to the Transition Care Program

Providing an alternative care option for frail, older patients who are unable, or not ready to, return home but no longer require hospital-level care, Minister for Aged Care, Ken Wyatt says the beds, funded by the Commonwealth-State Transition Care Program initiative, free up high-cost public hospital beds for acutely ill patients.

“These new places [at Juniper Charles Jenkins Transition Care in Bentley] will make a significant difference, helping ensure people can receive the support and care they need,” Minister Wyatt says.

The much-needed places now take Western Australia’s total TCP tally from 346 to 406, and will aim to reduce pressure on hospital beds, particularly in the East Metropolitan Health Service area.

With clients part of the TCP receiving care from experienced and accredited aged care providers, including health and allied health professionals, Western Australian Health Minister Roger Cook says the TCP places give older people more time to recuperate after hospital and plan for their long-term living arrangements.

Residents and their families will also benefit from the range of services and amenities available within the wider campus including carers, a medical practice, pharmacy and community centre.

“These 60 TCP places provide a better alternative and ensure that older members of our community can receive the most appropriate care for their needs, in the most appropriate facility,” Minister Cook says.

“I am pleased to officially open these beds and would like to recognise the contribution of the Commonwealth, who under a Commonwealth-State agreement, provide 66 percent of the funding for the beds.

“I also recognise the commitment of Juniper, who have worked tirelessly to refurbish their Bentley facility to ensure these beds are available before the peak flu season, when we see the demand for hospital beds at their peak.”

The places are already being utilised and are expected to have a positive impact on the public health system and the provision of care to older Western Australians.

The Deputy Premier and Minister for Health Roger Cook and Juniper Board Chair Mr Fred Boshart officially opened the new transition care service on Monday 7 August 2017.