Apr 03, 2020

Government further expands CHSP flexibility 

CHSP providers have already been given full flexibility to allocate up to 100% of their existing funds in 2019-20 and 2020-21 between the different service types they deliver so that emerging client needs can be met.  

These provisions have now been expanded to allow providers to re-allocate funding across the Aged Care Planning Regions (ACPRs) in which they operate on a time-limited basis.  

Any reallocation of funds between ACPRs should be done cautiously and only on the following basis:

  • Providers must retain the ability to return to their current regional footprint post the COVID-19 crisis.
  • Providers must not leave a service gap in an area they are operating in – i.e. resources may only be reallocated out of a region where there is a clear drop in the need for the service (e.g. group social support).
  • Providers seeking to reallocate funds to a different region should make all efforts to ensure existing service providers in the area are not already ramping up to meet the perceived need (speak with your FAM and other providers in the area).
  • Providers may still only allocate resources to services they are funded to deliver.

CHSP providers are only expected to use these relaxed flexibility provisions to support time limited care needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, and funding agreements will not be amended to reflect the changed service mix.

New resource for aged care outbreak management

The Department of Health’s guide to outbreak management is available online. This resource outlines how to identify if there is an outbreak at your facility and the steps to take to manage the outbreak.

Download the information sheet here.

To determine an outbreak, apply the “two in three” rule. 

An outbreak is considered to have started if 2 people in 3 days become sick with the symptoms and at least one of these has a positive test for COVID-19. 

While this is a guideline, the state/territory public health unit will assist in deciding whether to declare an outbreak.

Training modules are available

Seven modules are available for completion as part of the Department of Health’s eLearning program for Aged Care workers. 

The training includes Personal Safety, Families and Visitors, Outbreak Management and PPE.

Click here to register and access the training modules.

Aged care factsheets are being updated

All Aged Care factsheets that are publicly available on the Department of Health site are being updated to reflect recent announcements. Thank you for your patience while these updates are processed.

This information has been provided by the Department of Health.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Simple tips for helping someone living with Dementia during the pandemic

We've detailed some of the things aged care workers, family and friends can do to help alleviate potential struggles for those living with Dementia during COVID-19. From printing off hygiene reminders to visiting virtual museums there are many creative ways to make life a little easier and more enjoyable. Read More

Five people die in 24 hours at Newmarch nursing home

It is with sadness we report that five people have died in a 24-hour period as a result of COVID-19 at Newmarch House in Sydney’s western suburbs. Yesterday’s deaths mean 11 people have now passed away at the aged care facility since 11 April, when the virus was first detected at Newmarch House. The outbreak... Read More

Is The Aged Care Workforce Headed For Burnout?

Australia’s health system has long been viewed as one of the best in the world, a reputation that is currently being cemented as it continues to adapt to the challenges of an ongoing pandemic. One of the key reasons for Australia having lower fatality and transmission rates than other infected countries stems from having a... Read More
Advertisement