Setting up a system that ‘works’

There is a “real chance” for Australians to set up an aged care system that will deliver what consumers require, not-for-profit community operator, IRT, says.

IRT chief executive, Nieves Murray, says the Australians Deserve to Age Well Blueprint for Reform’s recent call for an independent Aged Care Commission, is a “very good place to start”.

The plan is set to increase” “transparency, reduce red tape and provide appropriate funding for aged care services”.

“We have seen a number of reports which shows the current funding model for aged care is inadequate and stifling growth across the sector. This inhibits the ability of providers to plan for natural growth and develop additional services to meet consumer needs,” Ms Murray says.

“The establishment of the Australian Aged Care Commission would allow government to accept independent advice on what is a crucial industry, responding to the needs of vulnerable seniors.

“It would allow providers and the community to have input into the modernisation of essential community services,” she adds.

Ms Murray says the independent pricing model would also give operators in regional and rural settings the chance to recover the costs they face, adding this has to be done through “legislative change, but the opportunity for independent analysis should be embraced”.

“Currently, providers in the aged care sector face multiple accreditation structures and it can take a lot of resources for independent providers to be informed across all requirements,” she says.

A Commission, with the ability to simplify processes and quality standards will give operators in smaller communities’ clarity in what their obligations are and allow them to provide more frontline services within budget.

“The further recommendations of a one-stop shop for aged-care information and assessment for consumers are also vital. We see people daily who, for whatever reason, suddenly require immediate assistance in their day-to-day life. Rather than running all over town, there needs to be a simplified and a responsive access for seniors and their families,” Ms Murray recommends.

“As an industry we need to be prepared to respond to the demands of the community and widespread reform is the only way we can achieve it.”