NSW Health Minister Ryan Park has warned that rising numbers of older patients unable to access aged care could have serious consequences for the state’s hospital system.
Speaking about projections that more than 7,000 older people could be waiting in hospital for an aged care bed within a decade, Mr Park described the situation as a major challenge for health systems across Australia.
He said more than 1,100 patients were occupying hospital beds despite being ready to move into residential aged care or return home with appropriate support. Mr Park compared the capacity lost to delayed discharges to the equivalent of two Sydney hospitals being taken offline.
The NSW Government has announced funding to help 300 older patients return home with the support they need. However, Mr Park said further Commonwealth investment was essential, calling for more home care packages and additional residential aged care beds.
He also highlighted the need to move older patients into appropriate care settings, easing pressure on hospitals and improving outcomes for patients and their families.
The warning reinforces concerns about whether Australia’s aged care capacity can keep pace with an ageing population and growing demand for hospital services.