Nearly one in 10 recipients of home care services are purchasing excluded items, including iPhones, Uber rides, hair dressing services, landscaping, roof repairs, and massage rollers, according to a review by the Department of Health and Aged Care (DOHAC).
The review, which has been published in the 'Home Care Package Program Assurance Report' released this week, found 160 care recipients, out of 1,824 who had their monthly statements from between April and June 2023 reviewed, were found to have claimed items on excluded items, with a total value of $124,466.
1,824 care recipients represents less than 1% of the total number of Home Care Package recipients. If the figures identified in the review were extrapolated to the whole home care recipient population, the total value of "leakage" from the home care system would be $70.5 million.
The review found most spending on excluded items was the result of misunderstanding or misinterpreting of program guidance. "Care recipient pressure" was also a factor.
The reviewers noted that more clarity was needed in some areas of Home Care Package guidance material, however, "significant portions of the guidance on excluded items is clear".
"The responsibility rests with providers to ensure decisions are consistent with program requirements, justifiable (based on evidence and needs) and well documented.
"Care recipients and their representatives should cooperate with providers to ensure funding is used appropriately and transparently."
The review found some recipients "shopped around" for providers willing to support claims for excluded items. Some even contacted the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission when providers would not support their requests.
