The Federal Government is set to cut the Complex Health Care element of the Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) by $1.2 billion over four years in the 2016-17 Budget, on top of $750 million which was cut in December 2015. Independent modelling suggests the real impact of the cuts will more than $2.5billion.
UnitingCare Australia wants to work with the Federal Government to develop a more sustainable funding model that will support Australia’s ageing population and does not jeopardise the care of vulnerable older Australians.
What’s the impact?
Should the cuts go ahead, funding will be reduced for each newly admitted aged care resident, or those whose needs are reassessed, by an average of $6,655 per year, with a reduction in funding of up to $18,000 for older people with the most complex needs.
Critical health care needs such as wound and skin care, mobility needs, arthritis treatment and end of life care are under direct threat. Aged care services will also be limited in their capacity to deliver the level of care to meet the needs of residents, reducing their wellbeing and quality of life.
Kippax Uniting Church will be holding its Annual General Meeting on Sunday the 28th of August 2016. More details to come.
Our next Monster Garage Sale is only one week away! We would love for you to join us between 8am and 1pm on Saturday 25 June. We also gratefully accept donations from 1pm on Wednesday 22 June and new volunteers.
