Gov launches new Aged Care Data and Digital Strategy

The Department of Health and Aged Care released a brand new Aged Care Data and Digital Strategy 2024-2029 on Thursday with the Minister of Aged Care, Anika Wells, launching the Strategy at the ARIIA Conference via video link. 

Minister Wells, who couldn’t attend the conference due to Parliament sitting in Canberra, said the event’s theme of facing the future demonstrated a collective commitment to improving the lives of older Australians, with the Strategy a core component of that commitment.

“The Strategy responds to the increasing use of data and digital technology to enhance older people’s well-being,” she said.

“This is a Strategy that puts the needs of older Australians first and lays the foundation for a digitally enhanced aged care system.”

Minister Wells added that it offers flexibility so people can choose between digital and non-digital methods while acknowledging that future technology developments will enhance in-person services for consumers, staff and providers. 

It also establishes critical data and digital foundations, including innovation frameworks and digital guidelines.

“This isn’t just a strategy, it is a commitment to use the power of data and digital technology to improve care for older Australians,” she added.

While the Minister for Aged Care couldn’t attend the ARIIA Conference in person, the Department was represented by Josh Maldon, Assistant Secretary, Digital Strategy and Assurance Branch.

Mr Maldon touched on several key elements of the Strategy, revealing that consultation occurred over the past 18 months. He said it highlighted one of the sector’s biggest issues, the fragmentation of digital systems and data. 

“We have notable gaps across workforce metrics, quality metrics as well as finance, not just for the providers but with Government and across systems,” he said.

“We heard that workforce is increasingly an issue we’re going to deal with. We are looking at how we can free up time and resources. The second concern is uplifting data and digital maturity. 

“We want to continue having the conversations with you about how best to do that.”

As outlined by the Strategy, there will be a focus on exploring opportunities with automation and streamlining tasks, all while promoting person-centred care. This will be achieved by better protecting the rights of older people and providing them with more choice and control, with the Strategy to align with many elements of the new Aged Care Act. 

Like many elements of the aged care reform journey, there can be a cause for concern over how this additional Strategy may impact providers. Mr Maldon said the Government is conscious of the reporting burden they place on aged care providers. 

However, he said an upcoming pilot will look at how AI and virtual reality can be used to support aged care providers, including to streamline as many actions as possible, including regulation and workforce management. 

Aged Care Data and Digital Strategy documents can be viewed here, including an action plan and summary of public consultation.