Additional Information
1. What is Home and Community Care or Community Aged Care Package?
The Community Aged Care Package (CACP) Program specifically targets frail older people living in the community who require management of care services because of their complex care needs.
A key feature of the CACP Program is the provision of individually tailored packages of care services that are planned and managed by an Approved Provider. The program requires all older people to be assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). The services provided as part of a CACP are designed to meet people's daily care needs and may vary as an individual's care needs change.
CACPs are legislated by the Aged Care Act 1997 and the Aged Care Principles 1997 made under the Act. The Act sets out a number of objects for the provision of all types of aged care, including care provided through the CACP program, namely to:
- promote a high quality of care;
- help recipients enjoy the same rights as all other people in the community;
- ensure that care is accessible and affordable for all recipients;
- plan effectively for the delivery of aged care services and ensure that aged care services are targeted towards the people and areas with the greatest needs and
- provide funding that takes account of the quality, type and level of care.
CACP’s are often referred to as Community Nursing. They provide professional care, including administration of medication, changing dressings, wound monitoring and pain management, as well as showering, bathing, dressing, toileting and other personal tasks, to clients in their own homes.
The Home and Community Care (HACC) Program is a joint Commonwealth/State funded Program offering a range of services which provide community care to frail aged and younger people with disabilities and their carers. The Program supports people to maintain their independence in their home and in their community, rather than being prematurely admitted to long term residential care.
People do not need a referral to contact a HACC funded service.
2. Where can I get more information?
There are numerous services designed to provide you with the latest information. These include:
- your local doctor
- local hospital
- health centre
- the Commonwealth Carelink Centre (phone 1800 052 222)
- Aged & Community Care Information Line (phone 1800 500 853)
3. Should I consider a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that appoints someone else (the attorney) to act on your behalf regarding matters of money and property even if you become incapable of understanding. You can get advice about preparing a power of attorney from a solicitor, a community legal centre, a state trustee company or your local magistrate's court.
4. What is guardianship?
In the event that you are unable to make decisions about your personal affairs, a guardian may be appointed by a State or Territory Government to act on your behalf.
A guardian is generally appointed when, after your health professional and/or friends or family present evidence before a board or tribunal, it is found that without an appointed guardian to manage your personal affairs, you pose a significant personal risk to yourself.
