The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has called for changes to the Support at Home program, warning that unnecessary assessments and administrative requirements can delay access to appropriate care. In its submission to the Senate inquiry, the college highlighted particular concerns for older people living with dementia.
The RACGP says the Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT) should recognise dementia diagnoses made by GPs, who often have an established understanding of their patients’ conditions. It also raised concerns that additional specialist referrals can increase costs and waiting times, while calling for greater funding for GPs providing home visits to older people with complex needs or limited mobility.
The Senate inquiry has also heard directly from older people and carers about the challenges of navigating Support at Home, including funding gaps, lengthy processes and complex information. With hearings continuing, stakeholders are calling for a system that better supports clinical judgement, reduces administrative barriers and provides timely, affordable care.