Expanding in-home care with a new face

Philip Moran knows the importance of helping older people to remain living in their own home – and has now begun his role of ensuring Victoria’s aged and community provider, Benetas, is well prepared for a future of supporting the state’s older community.

Mr Moran commenced his role as general manager this Monday (5 December 2011), and will lead the ‘Benetas at Home’ service after a recent successful bid to provide Veterans’ Home Care services throughout Victoria.

Mr Moran tells DPS News he was ready for a challenge when the newly created position at Benetas arose.

“I am really committed to developing ideas on how to assist older Australians in a supportive environment,” he says. “All evidence shows older people are happier if they can stay in their homes. There are also better health outcomes,” he adds.

Mr Moran is a seasoned and well-respected leader in the aged and health care sectors, having held his most recent position as chief executive at Merri Community Health Services for 14 years where he helped the service grow exponentially, both in terms of budget and service offerings to the community.

He also worked for the government for some years in various policy development and ministerial advisory positions before joining the not-for-profit sector.

According to Mr Moran, strategy and planning will be important throughout his time with Benetas.

“I think there will be many opportunities in the next couple of years, as well as reforms to ensure older people can stay in their homes,” he says, adding a combination of existing programs and reviewing new technologies and funding streams will assist in making this happen.

“I’m looking forward to it immensely. I cannot believe how welcoming Benetas has been, and their approach has been indicative of the way they deliver their services to seniors.”

Benetas chief executive, Sandra Hills, says having Mr Moran join the team is “a sign of exciting times ahead for the future of services at home for older Victorians”.