Stage 1 release: Service list
On 26 September 2024, the Department of Health and Aged Care (Department) released the first draft of a portion of the Rules, open for public consultation until 31 October 2024. The Rules released contain the ‘service list’ which outlines the care and services available to older people under the legislative framework.
The Department has indicated that the complete Rules will not be released until following passage of the Bill.
Purpose of the service list
The Bill provides for the Rules to establish a ‘service list’ to clearly define the scope of aged care services consistent with recent changes made in the disability sector. Redefining the approach taken to service lists in the Quality of Care Principles 2014 (Cth), the intention of the service list is to enhance transparency about the services that can be delivered by registered providers. The service list clarifies the ‘in-scope’ and ‘out-of scope’ services against each service type (such as home support and residential care) to ensure only specified aged care related services are funded through the aged care system.
How the service list benefits consumers
Consistent with the Bill’s objective to put people at the centre, a uniform aged care service list seeks to provide a single point of reference where individuals can view all the funded aged care services that an older person may access and aims to support individuals to have informed discussions with an approved needs assessor regarding the types of services they may require. It will also help consumers distinguish services which are or are not funded (such as gardening services obtained through private arrangements).
Interaction of the service list and the new regulatory model
The service list is integral to the new regulatory model. The service list groups services types together based on the most appropriate way to regulate the services, which are linked to provider registration categories. Along with the ‘residential care’ category already prescribed by the Bill, the Rules prescribe five other provider registration categories including home and community services; assistive technology and home modifications; advisory and support services; personal and care support in the home or community; and nursing and transition care.
Subsidies for services
The service list includes a ‘base efficient price’ for each service which serves as a benchmark for determining the subsidy provided for that service. Specific base efficient prices are yet to be announced.
Our experienced Aged Care Team is here to assist you through the ongoing sector reforms.
We are working closely with our clients to tailor solutions for their circumstances, as well as developing package offerings.
If you have questions or would like to discuss these reforms, we would be delighted to assist.