The Australian Government has taken action to improve resident care in two far North Queensland Aboriginal nursing homes.As part of the plan, the Department of Health and Ageing is supporting the consolidation of the two services in one location as they are about one hour apart.The nursing homes are:
Fred Leftwich Rest Home, a 15 place low care service, which has eight residents in Mareeba; and
Dija Meta Aged and Disabled Hostel, a 40 place hostel service with 33 residents in Cairns.Both nursing homes are operated by the same approved provider - Aborigines and Islanders Alcohol Relief Services Ltd (AIARS). (On July 31, the Department of Health and Ageing appointed a funds administrator to assist AIARS – due to financial viability concerns.)
As accredited nursing homes, Fred Leftwich Rest Home and Dija Meta Aged and Disabled Hostel are covered by the Aged Care Act 1997 and must meet 44 outcomes as assessed by the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency – the independent watchdog.
Last week, the Accreditation Agency revoked the accreditation of Fred Leftwich Rest Home in Mareeba – effective from November 14, 2008.
The Accreditation Agency found that Fred Leftwich Rest Home was non-compliant in 27 outcomes out of 44 and the home was not adequately working to improve its performance.
The issues of concern at Fred Leftwich Rest Home include:
- Managing residents with aggressive behaviour;
- Residents’ clinical care needs;
- Medication management;
- Information systems involving infection control; and
- Safe physical environment such as fire safety and protection for residents who may wander.
Yesterday, the Australian Government announced a major package to improve Aboriginal flexible aged care services in remote areas. This included $46.2 million which will fund and support a quality framework to improve resident care, training and capital works.
(pls. go to source for more details)
AbridgedSource: Minister of Aging Website
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