MS charity stops government-funded home care as costs for patients double
MSWA is ending a Commonwealth-funded home care program, leaving clients facing double the hourly rates with new providers.
MSWA will stop providing its Commonwealth-funded Support at Home program for people with multiple sclerosis. The charity said changes introduced by the Albanese government last year made the service unsustainable.
Clients, including 16 in regional areas, now need to find new providers at about double MSWA's rate of $60 an hour. Other providers charge around $125 an hour.
Marlene Robinson, 80, who has lived with MS for 30 years and depends on support workers for basic care, said she'll need to pay $1,000 extra per month from her own pocket. The couple is weighing whether she can remain at home or will need residential care.
MSWA said it will continue specialist neurological services while helping clients transition.
- 76
- Clients affected
- 16
- Regional clients
- $60
- MSWA hourly rate
- $125
- Other providers' rate
Why it mattersPeople relying on government-funded home care now face sudden cost jumps that could force them into residential facilities they can't afford.
AustraliaPeople with multiple sclerosis and other disabilities across Australia depending on home support services face similar disruptions as smaller care providers struggle with new aged care compliance requirements.
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