Sanctions: Australian Government Acts on Tasmanian Aged Care Home

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12 June 2009

The Australian Government has imposed sanctions on North East Aminya Hostel, an aged care facility in Scottsdale Tasmania.

The Department of Health and Ageing imposed sanctions on Thursday 11 June, 2009 following inadequate action by the provider to address issues of concern identified in February this year.

The aged care provider was required to address non-compliance problems but has failed to do so.

The Department found that there was non-compliance with the Aged Care Act 1997 in:

• Administration, including resident documentation - inadequate documentation of residents care plans and progress notes;
• Care and services - inadequate and inappropriate practices relating to medication management; and
• Staffing – a lack of suitably qualified and skilled staff.

The sanctions imposed requires the provider to appoint an adviser with nursing experience (approved by the Commonwealth) for a period of six months to help the facility comply with its responsibilities

The Accreditation Agency and the Department of Health and Ageing will continue to monitor the nursing home closely.

Nationally, there are 13 nursing homes under sanction of the 2,830 accredited aged care homes.

North East Aminya Hostel currently has 30 residents.

In 2007-2008 the home received more than $676,000 in Australian Government funding.

North East Aminya Hostel will organise a family and residents’ meeting to inform them of the situation at the facility.

Minister Elliot said: “This is about the protection and the welfare of frail and aged Australians and we will act when it is necessary.

“The Rudd Government is committed to improving the care and quality of Australia’s nursing homes and its residents,” Minister Elliot said.

Over the next four years, Australian Government funding for aged and community care will reach record levels of more than $44 billion. The Government will provide an average of $45,000 a year in funding for every aged care home resident. In addition, residents contribute an average of $20,000 a year, with the Government meeting this cost for those who are unable to do so.

The Rudd Government is committed work in partnership with older Australians, their families, staff, unions and providers to improve the quality of aged care in Australia.

Anyone with concerns about the care or welfare of residents in a residential aged care facility should immediately contact the Department of Health and Ageing’s Complaints Investigation Scheme on 1800 550 552.

For more information, contact Mrs Elliot's office on (02) 6277 7280

 

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