New Aged Care Quality Indicators Mandatory for Approved Providers
In this article:
New aged care Quality Indicators mandatory for approved providers from April 2023
How the New Quality Indicators Affect Residents and Their Families
The Difference between Quality Indicators and the 5-Star Ratings
Additional Quality Indicators Following Stakeholder Consultations
Pilot Program Brings Rescue Dogs to People Living with Dementia
Key Takeaways
The QI Program Expansion introduces six new quality indicators that focus on areas such as activities of daily living, incontinence care, hospitalisation, workforce, consumer experience, and quality of life.
The expansion of the QI Program was guided by stakeholder consultations, including feedback from older Australians, aged care providers, and peak organisations.
Aged care providers must collect data on the new quality indicators in the April-June 2023 quarter and submit the data in the 1-21 July 2023 reporting period.
The new quality indicators aim to provide a more comprehensive assessment of the quality of aged care services, thereby promoting better health outcomes for older Australians.
The aged care sector is witnessing innovative strategies and partnerships, like Aussie universities and Silverchain collaboration and HammondCare's lolly cart initiative, aimed at improving the quality of life for aged care recipients.
Considerations for home safety and when to consider palliative care preparation are integral parts of aged care planning.
The affordability of aged care, the impact of economic inflation on aged care costs, and initiatives like the introduction of cheaper medications for older Australians are key economic aspects shaping the future of aged care.
The QI Program is expected to continue evolving to meet the changing needs and expectations of aged care recipients, their families, and aged care service providers. The emphasis is on creating a resident-focused approach in the aged care sector, with a strong focus on quality improvement.
As societies around the globe are witnessing an increasing number of older adults, the need for quality aged care services is more crucial than ever. Australia, in response to this demographic shift, introduced the National Aged Care Mandatory Quality Indicator Program (QI Program) on July 1, 2019, and was updated on July 1, 2021.
This program forms a key part of the Australian Government's commitment to providing the highest possible standard of care for older citizens. It was designed with the aim of driving improvement in the quality of care provided by residential aged care providers and offering better health outcomes for older Australians. By tracking and reporting on vital areas of care, the program enables a more comprehensive assessment of the services provided, offering transparency and insight into their performance.
Quality Indicators (QIs): An Overview
Quality Indicators (QIs) are specific and measurable elements of practice or outcomes that provide a reliable way to assess the quality of care, services, and performance. In the context of aged care, QIs are used to gauge the effectiveness of care provided to the elderly in various areas such as clinical care, living conditions, and individual rights.
QIs primarily benefit the residents of aged care facilities by driving improvements in the quality of care and services they receive. They also benefit aged care providers by offering an objective measurement tool to monitor performance, identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement, and guide quality improvement efforts. Regulatory bodies and the public also use QIs to compare performance across different aged care providers.
Approved aged care providers are required to collect and report on QIs as part of their responsibilities under the National Aged Care Mandatory Quality Indicator Program (QI Program).
Changes in Quality Indicators
The new Quality Indicators introduced on 1 April 2023 are a significant shift from the current ones. The current QIs focus primarily on clinical aspects of care, while the new QIs expand the scope to include other crucial areas such as activities of daily living, incontinence care, hospitalisation, workforce, consumer experience, and quality of life. This holistic approach is aimed at providing a more comprehensive assessment of aged care quality.
The Role of the Royal Commission
The expansion of the QI Program aligns with the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The Royal Commission, which was established in response to serious concerns about the quality of care provided in aged care services, highlighted the need for a broader set of quality measures to accurately assess and improve the standard of care in aged care facilities.
Responsibilities of Aged Care Providers
Approved aged care providers are required to start collecting data on the new QIs in the April-June 2023 quarter and submit this data in the 1-21 July 2023 reporting period. This involves setting up systems to collect the necessary data, training staff on the new requirements, and ensuring data is collected consistently and accurately.
Aged care providers also need to continue their ongoing efforts to improve the quality of care based on the insights gained from the QI data. This includes developing and implementing quality improvement plans, involving staff in improvement efforts, and engaging with residents and their families to understand their experiences and perspectives.
The New Quality Indicator Program
About the Program
The National Aged Care Mandatory Quality Indicator Program, also known as the QI Program, is a regulatory initiative from the Australian Government. Its primary function is to monitor and report on crucial areas of aged care, helping to ensure quality and safety in aged care services.
Why the Program is Important
The QI Program is crucial because it improves transparency and accountability in aged care services, creating a more open and consistent system. It allows stakeholders, including residents, their families, and aged care providers, to have a clear understanding of the level of care being provided. By tracking and reporting key indicators, the program helps aged care providers identify areas for improvement, fostering a culture of continuous quality enhancement.
The Commission's Role in the QI Program
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission plays a vital role in implementing the QI Program. The Commission oversees the program, ensuring compliance and providing guidance for aged care providers. The Commission is also responsible for collecting and analysing data from the program, helping to inform future decisions about aged care services.
How the Program Works
The QI Program works by requiring aged care providers to regularly report on several key indicators of quality. These indicators include crucial areas such as clinical care, consumer rights and engagement, services and supports for daily living, and many others. Providers must collect data on these indicators and submit their findings to the Commission.
Expansion of the Program
Commenced in April 2023, the QI Program is expanding to include six additional quality indicators: activities of daily living, incontinence care, hospitalisation, workforce, consumer experience, and quality of life. This expansion aligns with the recommendations from the Royal Commission on Aged Care Quality and Safety and aims to further improve the quality of aged care.
The 8 Quality Standards
The QI Program is built around eight Quality Standards, each focusing on a different aspect of aged care, including:
Clinical care
The physical environment and safe systems
Personal care and support
Lifestyle
Decision-making
Dignity and choice
Ongoing assessment and planning with consumers
Feedback and complaints
Each standard has several requirements that providers must meet to ensure they are delivering quality care.
How to Meet the Requirements of the QI Program
To meet the requirements of the QI Program, providers must collect data on all the required quality indicators and report their findings to the Commission within the specified timeframe. They must also ensure they are adhering to the eight Quality Standards and continually strive to improve the quality of care they provide. Providers can achieve this by using the data they collect to identify areas for improvement and implementing strategies to address these areas.
Suggested Reading: Insights from latest Aged Care Sector Report
Changes in the Quality Indicator Program
What's Changing and Why
The QI Program is undergoing significant expansion to provide a more holistic representation of aged care quality. From 1st April 2023, the program will include six new quality indicators - activities of daily living, incontinence care, hospitalisation, workforce, consumer experience, and quality of life. The expansion comes in response to the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, aiming to further enhance the transparency, accountability, and quality of aged care services in Australia.
New Aged Care Quality Indicators
These new indicators will expand the existing program, providing a more comprehensive view of the quality of care provided by residential aged care services. Here are the details of these new indicators:
1. Activities of Daily Living
This indicator measures the percentage of care recipients who experienced a decline in activities of daily living. By monitoring this aspect, providers can ensure they are supporting residents in maintaining their abilities and independence for as long as possible.
2. Incontinence Care
Monitoring the percentage of care recipients who experienced incontinence-associated dermatitis, this indicator helps providers focus on improving the care and comfort of residents dealing with incontinence.
3. Hospitalisation
This indicator tracks the percentage of care recipients who had one or more emergency department presentations. Regular monitoring of this data can help identify opportunities to improve health outcomes and reduce unnecessary hospital admissions.
4. Workforce
By keeping track of staff turnover, this indicator gives insights into the stability and continuity of care provided. A stable workforce often leads to better relationships between residents and caregivers, which can positively impact care quality.
5. Consumer Experience
This indicator focuses on the residents' experiences with the service. It measures the percentage of care recipients who report 'good' or 'excellent' experiences. This data is invaluable in understanding how residents perceive the care they receive and can help providers make targeted improvements.
6. Quality of Life
This vital indicator measures the percentage of care recipients who report a 'good' or 'excellent' quality of life. It places emphasis on the well-being and satisfaction of the resident, reinforcing the importance of a person-centred approach in aged care.
These additional Quality Indicators for residential aged care signify a significant advancement in Australia's aged care quality measurement and improvement efforts, ensuring a more holistic and resident-focused approach.
Who Selects the Quality Indicators and How Are They Selected
Quality Indicators are chosen through a comprehensive and consultative process involving older Australians, aged care providers, and peak organisations. This collaborative approach ensures the selected indicators are representative of the facets of care that matter most to those directly impacted by the services. Their first-hand insights help shape a more meaningful and effective program.
How to Prepare for New Quality Indicators
To prepare for the new Quality Indicators, aged care providers must familiarise themselves with the changes and what they mean for their services. This involves understanding the new indicators, what they measure, and how to collect the necessary data. Training staff to understand and implement these changes will also be essential to meet the new requirements.
Project Overview
The expansion of the QI Program is a significant project spearheaded by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. It involves updating program guidelines, educating providers about the changes, and implementing systems for collecting and reporting new data. The project will continue to evolve as it responds to feedback and learnings from the initial implementation phase, with a constant focus on improving aged care quality for all Australians.
Suggested Reading: Smart, future-proof, person-centred solutions
Impact of the New Quality Indicators
When does the Collection of New Quality Indicators Begin?
Providers are required to begin collecting data on the new Quality Indicators in the April-June 2023 quarter. Following this, they need to submit their collected data during the 1-21 July 2023 reporting period. This schedule ensures continuity in quality measurement and enables timely assessment of the newly incorporated indicators.
How to Report the New Data
The new data needs to be reported to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission within the stipulated timeframe. Providers should ensure that data collection processes align with the specifications outlined in the updated QI Program Manual, and that they have the necessary systems in place for accurate and timely data reporting.
When to Start "Collecting" Data and When to "Report"
Collection of data pertaining to the new Quality Indicators should commence in the April-June 2023 quarter, with reporting of this data due in the 1-21 July 2023 reporting period. This cycle will continue on a quarterly basis, contributing to a robust dataset for ongoing quality improvement initiatives.
How the New Quality Indicators Affect Residents and Their Families
The addition of new Quality Indicators is set to have a positive impact on residents and their families. They will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the quality of care provided, ensuring greater transparency and accountability. Moreover, the expansion to areas such as quality of life and consumer experience further emphasises the resident-centred approach of the QI Program.
The Difference between Quality Indicators and the 5-Star Ratings
Quality Indicators form a component of the overall assessment of aged care services, focusing on specific areas of care and health outcomes. They provide measurable and comparable data across providers. On the other hand, the 5-star ratings provide a broader view of the quality of aged care services, taking into account various aspects like safety inspections, health inspections, and staffing. It's important to note that both are integral to providing an accurate and holistic view of the quality of care provided by aged care services.
The Role of Stakeholders and Consultations
Stakeholder Consultations
The expansion of the QI Program is not a unilateral decision but a collaborative process involving multiple stakeholders. These include aged care recipients, their families, aged care providers, and peak organisations. Their inputs and insights have been crucial in shaping the new Quality Indicators and ensuring they reflect the experiences and needs of those directly impacted by aged care services.
Consultation Materials
To facilitate effective consultation, a range of materials was developed and shared with stakeholders. These include details about the proposed new indicators, information about data collection and reporting processes, and opportunities for providing feedback and recommendations.
Quality Indicator Pilot
A pilot program was conducted to test the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed new indicators. This was an important step in confirming their suitability and refining the implementation process based on real-world experience.
Additional Quality Indicators Following Stakeholder Consultations
Following the consultations, four additional Quality Indicators were added for residential aged care, and up to five for in-home aged care. This decision reflects the valuable insights gained from stakeholder consultations and the commitment to continually improving the scope and relevance of the QI Program.
Pilot Program Brings Rescue Dogs to People Living with Dementia
An innovative pilot program has been launched to bring rescue dogs to people living with dementia. This initiative reflects the growing recognition of the positive impacts of animal companionship on mental and emotional well-being. The success of such programs could lead to more out-of-the-box ideas being incorporated into the quality of care assessment in the future.
Innovations and Partnerships in Aged Care
Nursing homes across Australia are implementing new strategies to enhance their workforce's capabilities and improve service delivery. These initiatives range from enhanced training programs to innovative staffing models, all designed to better meet the diverse and evolving needs of aged care recipients.
In a pioneering initiative, Australian universities have partnered with Silverchain, a leading aged care provider, to address loneliness and dementia symptoms in older Australians. The partnership leverages research and practical expertise to develop and implement effective strategies aimed at improving the quality of life for people living with dementia.
HammondCare has introduced a unique initiative, a lolly cart, to bring joy and comfort to their residents. This gesture goes beyond the basic care requirements, reflecting a genuine commitment to enhancing residents' happiness and quality of life.
Home Care and Safety
How to Make a Safer Home for an Older Person
Home safety is a critical consideration in aged care. Measures such as removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars, improving lighting, and regular safety checks can help create a safer and more comfortable living environment for older adults.
Related reading:
When Should You Consider Palliative Care Preparation?
Palliative care is an important aspect of aged care, providing relief from the symptoms and stress of serious illness. It should be considered when a person's illness is causing physical discomfort or emotional distress that affects their quality of life. Planning for palliative care can ensure that the individual's needs and preferences are met and that they receive the best possible care and support during a challenging time.
Economic Aspects of Aged Care
Are Older People Spending More Than They Can Afford To?
The financial implications of aged care are a significant concern for many older Australians. There are ongoing debates and discussions around the cost of living, the affordability of care services, and whether older people are spending more than they can afford. Strategies to improve the affordability and financial sustainability of aged care are continually being explored to address these concerns.
Are You Benefiting from Economic Inflation?
Economic inflation impacts all aspects of life, including the cost of aged care. While inflation can increase the cost of services, it can also lead to increases in pensions and other benefits. It's important for older Australians and their families to understand how economic inflation affects their finances and the affordability of care services.
Cheaper Medications Soon to be Available for Older Australians
A significant financial relief for older Australians comes in the form of cheaper medications. A new initiative has been announced to make certain medications more affordable, helping reduce the financial burden on older individuals and their families. This move is part of a broader commitment to improving the affordability of aged care and supporting the well-being of older Australians.
Future Directions and Expectations for the QI Program
The expansion of the National Aged Care Mandatory Quality Indicator Program marks a significant step forward in Australia's commitment to improving the quality of aged care. By incorporating more comprehensive and resident-focused indicators, the QI Program is better equipped to capture the complexities of aged care services and drive meaningful improvements.
Moving forward, we can expect continued evolution of the QI Program as it responds to the changing landscape of aged care and the needs of older Australians. This will likely involve further consultations with stakeholders, refinement of existing indicators, and the introduction of new ones to ensure the program remains relevant and effective.
The future also holds the promise of innovative programs and partnerships aimed at enhancing the quality of life of aged care recipients. From novel workforce strategies to unique initiatives like HammondCare's lolly cart, these efforts showcase the creative potential in aged care.
In terms of economic aspects, there's ongoing work to strike a balance between the cost and quality of aged care. The introduction of cheaper medications is a positive step in this direction, providing some relief to older Australians and their families.
Finally, we can look forward to an aged care sector that is increasingly centred on the needs, experiences, and well-being of older Australians. The Quality Indicator Program, in its expanded form, will be a critical tool in achieving this vision, providing a robust framework for measuring and improving the quality of aged care.
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