Royal Commission report provides once-in-a-generation opportunity for reform
Bupa ANZ CEO Hisham El-Ansary today welcomed the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety’s Final Report (“the Report”) as a once-in-a-generation opportunity for true industry reform. Bupa is currently working through the Report’s 148 recommendations.
“We welcome this report as an important step in addressing the challenges in aged care, with the view to support better care for older Australians, focused on their individual needs, health and wellbeing, and ultimately a sustainable future for the sector,” Mr El-Ansary said.
“Comprehensive, holistic action needs to be taken to improve the aged care sector. This Report represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to come together and commit to providing older Australians with the high-quality care and dignity they deserve, now and into the future.”
Bupa supports recommendations that will improve quality of care, build a capable, caring and valued workforce, and increase funding to reflect the true cost of caring for older Australians and the expectations of an ageing Australia.
“The Commissioners have produced a comprehensive proposal for reform and we support the Government’s commitment, outlined today, to transforming aged care.
“The challenge will be ensuring this results in a genuine and lasting difference to older people and our community – of which industry is a critical part – to meet the evolving needs of an ageing population.”
Mr El-Ansary welcomed the focus on residential care in both the Report and the Government’s initial response.
“Recent investment in the sector has supported people who increasingly want to stay in their homes for as long as possible, but we also need to recognise that residential care homes remain an important adjunct for many Australians. As our population ages and care needs increase, residential care is often the only option for many.
“We are pleased to see residential aged care quality, safety and sustainability listed as key pillars in the Government’s response to the Report,” Mr El-Ansary said.
“With thousands of older Australians entrusted to Bupa’s care, we are committed to continuing to make the necessary changes and building on the work we have already begun to ensure our residents always feel supported in our homes.”
Mr El-Ansary said as the report had just been released, Bupa would take some time to consider its recommendations and share its response.
