Advocates express concern that a new algorithm for aged care funding in Australia may be prone to errors similar to those seen in the Robodebt scandal, affecting vulnerable individuals like Graham Crossan.
Graham Crossan, an 80-year-old Melbourne resident suffering from advanced motor neurone disease, has been denied necessary high-level care funding due to a new algorithm implemented for assessing My Aged Care funding requests. His inability to breathe unassisted or perform daily activities without help underscores the critical nature of adequate funding for his care. Advocates warn that the algorithm, which they fear may replicate past errors from the Robodebt scandal, could significantly harm individuals who, like Graham, require specialized healthcare support.
The federal government has acknowledged these concerns and stated that it is closely monitoring the assessment process. Officials have promised that adjustments will be made as the system is evaluated and improved over time. However, this declaration provides little comfort to families facing the immediate impacts of insufficient funding, as they navigate the complexities of caregiving under challenging circumstances.
The Crossan family is watched as they manage daily life, which involves an exhausting routine that includes setting up Graham's feeding and ventilator equipment. Gaynor, Graham's wife, recalls how their lives have changed dramatically over the years, noting the loss of activities they once enjoyed together. This situation highlights not only the personal struggles faced by families but also raises broader questions about the adequacy and fairness of Australia's aged care funding system and its reliance on potentially flawed algorithms.
