Agency writes back
In a letter published in the Ballarat Courier today, The Aged Care Standards & Accreditation Agency has responded to claims made during the week that their review of Kirralee Nursing home “did not consider the whole scenario”.
“It was not simply that the paperwork was inadequate,” said Aged Care Standards & Accreditation Agency Corporate Affairs General Manager, Chris Falvey.
“The serious risk to the health, safety and wellbeing of residents was identified at an unannounced visit on 18 July 2008. A three-day review audit commenced the next day, Saturday, 19 July. This comprehensive audit by two assessors identified thirty-three non compliant outcomes. More than 10 visits followed before the decision to revoke the home’s accreditation was made.
“Contrary to the comments attributed to Dr Bongiorno, the entire scenario was considered and information collected over a number of visits. Agency assessors, who are also registered nurses, were included in virtually all of the visits. These assessors are trained and accredited to an internationally recognised standard and are qualified to assess all the aspects of a resident’s life at the home that are covered by the accreditation standards.”
Mr Falvey said that, as part of the audit, the assessors spoke to residents, relatives of residents, staff and management of the home and a visiting medical practitioner and that all aspects of the residents’ life at Kirralee were considered.
“It is hard to see why the substantial actions are being taken if the care and services are up to standard,” said Mr Falvey.
