Investigation Initiated
Aged Care Minister Sam Rae has requested the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to investigate allegations that residential aged care facilities are reducing services under new reforms. Reports indicate facilities are removing items such as televisions from bedrooms and deactivating Wi-Fi unless residents purchase upgraded packages.
Ministerial Concerns
Minister Rae informed the Commission of these reports, particularly concerning aged care provider Opal Healthcare, and plans to formalize this request.
Minister Rae described the reported actions as "sidestepping" within the sector, emphasizing that while regulations set a minimum, older Australians should receive dignified treatment.
He also stated that removing items like televisions and ensuring comfortable living temperatures are basic considerations for residents.
New Standards Under Scrutiny
This marks the first significant test of the federal government's new aged care quality standards, which became effective in November. These standards are designed to ensure older people receive safe, high-quality care that meets their needs, preferences, and upholds their rights.
The guidelines prohibit facilities from charging for services deemed "must-have" or those previously provided free of charge.
Concerns Over Unused Services
Concerns have been raised regarding whether the new regulations are sufficiently specific to prevent providers from charging residents for services they cannot or do not use.
Family members have reported instances of being charged for services like pet therapy for a resident with dementia who dislikes dogs, or hairdressing services for a bald resident.
Provider Perspective
An Opal Healthcare spokesperson stated that the Aged Care Act, implemented in November, limits federal government funding to basic residential aged care services such as medical care, accommodation, food, and basic lifestyle options. The spokesperson noted that "Higher Everyday Living Fees" were introduced under the Act, allowing residents with greater means to pay for additional lifestyle, food, and accommodation choices.
Separately, a document from Scalabrini indicated that in-room televisions and channel access are no longer considered "basic resident services" and are not government-funded.
Regulatory Action
The Commission's investigation will determine if existing rules and regulations have been followed. It will also provide feedback to the department on whether the current guidance requires updates.