Navigating the transition from hospital to home or another care setting can be a challenging time for older adults. In Western Australia (WA), the Transition Care Program (TCP) is designed to provide crucial short-term support during this period. This program helps older individuals regain their health and independence after a hospital stay, ensuring a smoother and safer return to their daily lives.
What Exactly is the Transition Care Program WA?
The Transition Care Program (TCP) in WA offers a period of focused, short-term care, typically up to 12 weeks. It’s specifically for older people who have been in the hospital and are medically stable enough to be discharged but still require support to manage daily living. This support bridges the gap between intensive hospital care and complete independence at home.
The services offered under the TCP are tailored to individual needs and can include a range of therapies and assistance. These are designed to help individuals regain their strength, mobility, and confidence. While the level of care isn’t as intensive as in a hospital, it’s more comprehensive than standard community or home care packages, providing a vital step-down approach.
Services Available Through Transition Care Program Wa:
The TCP provides access to a multidisciplinary team and a variety of services, which may include:
- Nursing Care: Professional nursing support for medical needs and medication management.
- Physiotherapy: Rehabilitation exercises and therapies to improve mobility and physical function.
- Occupational Therapy: Assistance in regaining skills for everyday tasks and adapting to living environments.
- Speech Therapy: Support for communication and swallowing difficulties.
- Social Work: Emotional support, counseling, and assistance with future care planning and connecting with community resources.
- Dietary Advice: Nutritional guidance to support recovery and overall health.
- Case Management: Coordination of services and support, including identifying long-term care options if required.
- Medical Services: Access to GP services for ongoing medical needs.
- Personal Care: Assistance with personal hygiene, dressing, and other daily activities.
- Domestic Help: Support with household tasks to ease the transition home.
These services are flexible and designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, aiming to improve or maintain both physical and mental well-being, and enhance the ability to manage daily life independently.
Eligibility for Transition Care Program WA
To access the Transition Care Program in WA, individuals need to be assessed and approved by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). Typically, social workers in the hospital will discuss TCP options with patients who are nearing discharge and believe they might benefit from this program. ACAT will determine eligibility based on individual needs and circumstances.
Understanding the Costs of Transition Care Program WA
The Transition Care Program in WA is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and State Governments, making it a more affordable option than many private care services. However, participants are expected to contribute to the cost of their care through a daily fee.
Cost Structure:
- TCP in an Aged Care Home: The maximum daily fee is capped at 85% of the basic daily rate of the single age pension.
- TCP at Home: The maximum daily fee is lower, at 17.5% of the basic daily rate of the single age pension.
It’s important to note that financial hardship is taken into consideration. TCP providers have the discretion to reduce fees for individuals who genuinely cannot afford them. No one will be denied access to the Transition Care Program in WA due to financial constraints. Upon admission to the program, clients will sign an agreement outlining the associated costs, ensuring transparency and clarity.
Transition Care Program WA Service Providers
The Transition Care Program in WA is delivered in various settings, including residential aged care facilities and in community settings, such as your own home. This flexibility allows the program to cater to different needs and preferences.
Residential TCP Providers in WA:
| Service provider | Location |
|---|---|
| Aegis Ascot | Bayswater |
| Aegis Banksia Park | Calista |
| Aegis Sandstrom | Mt Lawley |
| Aegis Murdoch | Murdoch |
| Amana Living Kinross | Kinross |
| Amana Living Wearne House | Mandurah |
| Amana Living Older Adult Mental Health | Bull Creek |
| Brightwater Birralee | Innaloo |
| Brightwater Kingsley | Kingsley |
| Carinya of Bicton (managed by St Jude’s) | Bicton |
| Hall and Prior – Belmont Nursing Home | Rivervale |
| Hall and Prior – Hocart Lodge | Harvey |
| Hall and Prior – Karingal Green | High Wycombe |
| Hall and Prior – Windsor Park Nursing Home | Carlisle |
| Juniper Annesley | Bentley |
| Juniper Hayloft | Martin |
| Juniper Korumup | Albany |
Community (Home-Based) TCP Providers in WA:
| Service provider | Location |
|---|---|
| Brightwater Community | Metropolitan Perth |
| Hall and Prior – White Oak Joondalup | Joondalup, Wanneroo and surrounds |
| Hall and Prior – White Oak | Midland, Swan and Hills |
| Hall and Prior | Bunbury, South Bunbury, East Bunbury, Glen Iris, Harvey and Dalyellup |
| Juniper Community | Metropolitan Perth |
| Silver Chain Group | Albany |
| Southern Cross Care | Fremantle and surrounds |
| Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service | Broome and surrounds |
| South West Aboriginal Medical Service | South West WA and Peel regions |
| WA Country Health Service – Midwest | Geraldton and surrounds |
Addressing Concerns and Providing Feedback
If you have concerns or wish to provide feedback regarding your experience with the Transition Care Program WA, you are encouraged to contact the specific service provider (Facility Manager). Hospitals also have their own complaint processes for concerns related to inpatient care or the transition to TCP services.
Further Contact Points:
If issues remain unresolved, you can also reach out to:
- WA Department of Health Transition Care Program: [email protected]
- Health and Disability Services Complaints Office (HaDSCO): (08) 6551 7600 or 1800 813 583
- Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission: 1800 951 822 or www.agedcarequality.gov.au
Conclusion
The Transition Care Program WA is a valuable resource for older adults in Western Australia needing support after a hospital stay. By providing tailored services and financial assistance, TCP helps individuals regain their independence and ensures a smoother transition to their next stage of care, whether at home or in residential care. Understanding the program’s services, eligibility, and costs can empower individuals and their families to make informed decisions about post-hospital care and recovery in WA.
Last reviewed: 05-09-2024
Acknowledgement: Aged and Continuing Care Directorate
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.
