Aged Care Minister slams Opal fees allowed under new rules
Aged Care Minister Sam Rae has labelled new Higher Everyday Living Fee (HELF) packages reportedly being trialled as “disgusting” – even though the services are in line with Government policy.
On Friday (13 March), The Daily Telegraph reported leaked details alleging Opal HealthCare was trialling new fees and charges, including ‘basic’ packages that exclude ice-cream after dinner and free-to-air television in resident rooms under a new two-tier system.
The revelation sparked instant controversy, including heated comments from Aged Care and Seniors Minister Sam Rae, who expressed strong views in interviews across news networks about the reports.
However, an Opal HealthCare spokesperson has told The Weekly SOURCE that the reports are incorrect – all residents have free-to-air television in their rooms and receive ice-cream after dinner.
Minister disconnected from Govt policy
The Minister’s comments reveal a disconnect with the Department’s own policies.
The Minister told Nine News on Friday (13 March): “Having access to a telly is a basic human right.”
The alleged packages were “absolutely disgusting”, he said, adding that he has asked the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to investigate.
The Minister held the line today (Monday 16 March) on ABC Radio, stating:
“Access to free-to-air television and information is absolutely a right that people have, and that should absolutely be provided for.
“There is no excuse for providers to be trying to gouge older people or their families to try and provide these basic essentials.”
TVs excluded from Service List
However, under the Government’s own Residential Aged Care Service List and HELF Guidance for Providers, published by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, televisions are not included on the Service List. See below.
Aged care operators therefore do not have to include television as standard in resident rooms, according to the Department’s own guidance.
But, as Minister Rae said on the ABC, the List is intended as a bare minimum.
A spokesperson for the Minister told The SOURCE: “For newer residents, providers should apply some basic common sense beyond just meeting the minimum standards.
Community reaction to Friday’s reports show excluding basic items, such as televisions, from basic packages, had clearly “fallen short” of expectations.
Delivering on Government’s Guidance: Opal
The Opal spokesperson said they are delivering on the Government's new two-tiered system, as legislated under the new Aged Care Act, with the aim of providing more choice for residents under the HELF program.
“People living in residential aged care have different preferences, financial arrangements and expectations, and our communities reflect that diversity,” they said.
“Optional services are designed to respond to those differences, so the services available, quality and pricing can vary accordingly.”
“Every aged care provider, including Opal HealthCare, is now introducing that government-mandated system,” the spokesperson added.
Aware of concerns: Commission
Acting Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner, Gary Rake, told The Weekly SOURCE: “The Commission is aware of concerns about provider arrangements for the charging of HELF.
“Aged care providers are required to deliver care and services in accordance with the Aged Care Act and Rules, and the Aged Care Quality Standards.
“If we find a provider not meeting their obligations, we will take action to hold them to account.”
You can view the Government’s HELF guidelines here.
