DHF Annual Report 2009 - NT Health Digital Library - Northern ...

Aged and Disability ProgramSupport services are provided to frail aged people and people with disabilities and theircarers in their homes and in the community to enable them to maximise their participationin the community and remain independent for as long as possible. Services includeprofessional support services such as assessment, case management, allied healthand specialist services including specialist children’s development therapies, as well ascommunity support services and accommodation support.Responsibility for these clients is shared with the Australian Government which jointlyfunds some services. The National Disability Agreement (NDA) came into effect on1 January 2009, replacing the previous Commonwealth State Territory Disability Agreement(CSTDA). The Home and Community Care Program (HACC) is the other major fundingagreement between the Australian and Northern Territory Governments.Key AchievementsAdopted a centralised intake process for all aged and disability clients across theNorthern Territory, ensuring equitable access to services provided and or funded by theAged and Disability Program.Commenced work in the development of the Secure Care Facilities in Darwin and AliceSprings. Clients who require secure care have complex behaviours which may havebecome more intense over time and require a level of intensive therapy not able to beaccessed in their homes. referrals to specialist Aged and Disability Program services.and Mobility Equipment (TIME) Scheme, The NT Pensioner and Carer ConcessionScheme (NTPCCS), the NT Seniors Card Scheme and the Companion Card Scheme.The Northern Territory Companion Card was launched in December 2009. Therequire attendant care support from a companion, better access to events and activities.Seven Northern Territory wide community-based Transition Care places were madeoperational. Transition care places provide low intensity therapy services, such asphysiotherapy, occupational therapy, dietetics, podiatry, speech therapy, nursing and/or personal care services. for up to 12 weeks of care with a possible extension ofsix weeks, either in the client’s own home or in a bed-based residential setting. TheTransition Care Program works to improve the quality of life for older Territorians andhelp them remain independent.$400 000 was used to lever re-investment across the program with a focus on thedevelopment of additional block funded supported accommodation placements.An additional $598 000 was invested in Home and Community Care services with afocus on respite services.A review of the Territory Independence and Mobility Equipment Scheme (TIME) / SeatingEquipment and Technology (SEAT) Service was completed and recommendationsaccepted for implementation.Implemented psycho-geriatric services.Launched the Aged and Disability Program Policy Manual.Department Health and Families 143