Concerns about families or supporters cancelling essential care due to out-of-pocket costs

Under the Support at Home program, participants assessed as eligible for government-subsidised funding after 12 September 2024 are now required to make personal financial contributions towards their care. For many people, especially those unaccustomed to paying for such supports, these new costs may seem daunting.

And while we understand the financial strain the new contributions may cause, we are also mindful that declining or cancelling these services can place participants at risk by limiting their access to care and services that have been professionally deemed necessary for their safety, comfort, and independence.

A particular concern arises when family members, often acting with good intentions, discourage or even cancel essential care services for their ageing parents due to the requirement for making out-of-pocket payments. While it is understandable to want to safeguard their loved one's savings or prevent financial strain, this can potentially lead to serious and unintended consequences for their health and well-being.

It is important for family members to recognise that the rights of participants are protected under the Aged Care Act (2024), which states that older people must be fully involved in any decisions affecting their care. Open communication between families, participants, and care providers is essential to ensure that financial concerns are addressed without compromising the quality or continuity of care.

If family members or supporters contact us to cancel essential services on behalf of a participant, we as the registered provider, are obligated to assess the potential impact on the participant's well-being and to ensure that the participant's preferences and voice are being heard throughout the process.

Please contact us if you have concerns about government co-contributions so we can work through the issues together with you and the participant.