OPAN has launched a new infosheet to support older people, their families and support networks to understand optional fees in residential aged care.
The Higher Everyday Living Fee (HELF) is an optional fee for extra services that go beyond the standard care and services every resident is entitled to. HELF replaces the previous Extra Service Fee and Additional Service Fee.
OPAN continues to hear questions and concerns about where the line sits between standard aged care services and services that can be charged as HELF.
Concerns have also been raised about bundled charges for services such as free-to-air television, telephone and internet, and a lack of transparency around how these bundles are priced.
Without clear and consistent guidance, HELF risks creating a two-tiered aged care system, where quality of life may depend on a resident’s ability to pay rather than genuine choice.
OPAN is not opposed to optional extras in aged care. However, they should never become a barrier to necessary care, dignity or informed choice.
The infosheet outlines what HELF is, residents’ rights when it comes to bundled services, the protections that apply to HELF agreements, and OPAN’s position on the issue.