What aged care homes are eligible to participate in the Initiative?

The Initiative applies to all aged care homes subsidised by the Australian Government including both high and low care facilities and Multipurpose Services.

What are the roles for aged care homes with the Initiative?

Participation in the Initiative is voluntary for aged care homes. However, potential benefits include:

• More timely access to primary medical care for residents
• Improved quality care for residents
• Improved clinical advice for staff

Does this Initiative effect aged care home accreditation?

No, the GP Panels Initiative and the Aged Care Home accreditation process are completely separate.  The GP Panels Initiative was not designed to have an impact on aged care accreditation process nor to alter the responsibilities of the respective parties. However, the process and clinical benefits of this Initiative for aged care homes, GPs and residents will be positive.

What are the benefits of Aged Care Homes participating in this Initiative?

Further potential benefits for residents and staff of aged care homes might include:

i more timely access to primary medical care for residents
ii improved quality medical care to residents
iii consistency in medical care/GPs providing care
iv improved clinical advice for staff in their caring role
v reduction in inappropriate emergency transfers to hospital
vi reduction in inefficiencies in interactions with GPs
vii improved understanding by GPs of pressures affecting aged care home staff
viii improved communication between GPs and aged care home staff
ix ability of homes to utilise the initiative to make changes to local processes, networks and supports
x improvements in the ability of the home to deliver high quality care (eg through introduction of emergency care protocols) and give confidence to aged care home staff