This is for older people who need more time to recover after being in hospital. The government-subsidised ‘transition care program’ can help you make a decision about what to do and perhaps where to live in the longer term.

This short-term program is available in your own home, in an aged care home or health facility such as a hospital, and can provide you with low intensity therapy such as:

• Physiotherapy and podiatry
• Nursing support and clinical care
• Personal care
• Access to social worker

Applying for transition care

Before you can access the transition care program you need to be assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). This is a free assessment that determines your eligibility to receive the government-subsidised aged care services.

To arrange your assessment you can contact your doctor or local hospital who can refer you to an appropriate ACAT. Or alternatively, you may also contact your local ACAT directly to arrange your own assessment.

It is important to note that this support can only be accessed directly from hospital.