LUTHERAN COMMUNITY CARE (LCC) was successful in securing all 16 residential aged care places applied for in the Federal Government 2011 Aged Care Approvals Round (ACAR).

Places were recently awarded to the LCC after a competitive selection process.

LCC Director Business Strategy and Performance Garry Pankhurst was involved in the ACAR submission and outlined the positive impact for people who do not have the means to pay the full costs of their care and accommodation.

“It has enabled us to bring in clients who couldn’t have afforded to come into unfunded beds,” he said.

“The additional government funding means three of our services should receive an additional $220,000 per annum in income to provide services to older Australians.

“This is the second year in succession we have been successful in our applications.”

Three services received additional funding for low care beds:

• Immanuel Gardens gained (eight)
• Northridge Salem Hostel (two), and
• Salem Lutheran Rest Home Hostel (six).  

Low level care is for people who need some help, but do not have complex ongoing care needs. Low level care focuses on personal care services (help with dressing, eating, bathing and so forth), accommodation, support services and some allied health services. Nursing care can be provided when required.      

Each application was subject to a rigorous assessment process based on criteria prescribed in the Aged Care Act 1997 relating to approved providers’ financial strength, capacity to provide the appropriate level of care and any past experience in delivering care.

Immanuel Gardens General Manager Steve Stacey is thrilled the service can now offer accommodation and care to several people on the waiting list who require funded beds.

“Immanuel Gardens is now well placed to offer immediate accommodation and care at our hostel, which boasts several rooms with ocean views,” he said.