Ad hoc funding delivers a boost for Aged Care Program

A recent injection of funds from the Department of Health will have a positive impact on older Australians receiving assistance through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP).

The Aged Care Program, managed by Gladstone Region Aboriginal and Islander Community Controlled Health Service – t/a Nhulundu Health Service, has been approved ad hoc funding of almost $290,000 with the grant to be allocated for emergency support for COVID-19.

Nhulundu Health Service CEO, Matthew Cooke, said the significant funding contribution would enable the Aged Care Program to not only increase the number of clients currently accessing CHSP, but would enable the program to further expand its service. “We have seen a surge in the demand for additional services from our current clients in addition to those who have recently been assessed,” he said.

Mr Cooke acknowledged the Department’s flexibility across all CHSP activity during this COVID-19 period and was appreciative that would continue during the 2021 FY. “There has been additional CHSP activity required by our clients to ensure they remain safe and independent within their homes during social isolation restrictions,” he said. “Some of our CHSP activity has been closed during this period on the My Aged Care Portal due to full use and allocation of our approved activity.”

Mr Cooke said the injection of funds would help ensure the health and wellbeing needs of clients were met during COVID-19. “This will include additional allied health therapy services, social support, personal care, domestic assistance, home maintenance and food services,” he said.