Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Health & Aged Care
What is Bed Block
A Collaborative Initiative
Coordinated by Community Industry Group, ‘Task Force’ is a collaborative initiative funded by the NSW Ministry of Health to address the critical issue of Bed Block in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District. Task Force brings together key stakeholders, including government leaders, health professionals, aged care providers, and local governments, to develop systemic solutions. Task Force’s mission is to enhance the transition process for older people and those with disabilities who are unable to leave hospitals due to a lack of suitable residential care options. By leveraging collective expertise, the group seeks to tackle this “wicked problem” and improve outcomes for impacted individuals.
On a typical day in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, there are between 100 and 150 patients in hospital who are ready for discharge and formally approved for accommodation and care in a residential aged care home. While some patients transition to aged care quite smoothly within a week or two of approval, many others find themselves unable to secure a placement in a suitable aged care home and remain in hospital for several months or more. This delayed discharge, also commonly referred to as Bed Block, impacts the older person, their family and the whole community and results in patients becoming de-conditioned and exposed to infections or becoming more unwell.
Looking Ahead
The initiative is set to expand further by including in-home care providers, ensuring a holistic approach to addressing the crisis through collective action. Task Force plans to hold another meeting in 2025 to finalize recommendations for the NSW Health Ministry. This meeting will provide an opportunity for all stakeholders to contribute their perspectives on how to expand residential care, home care, and other essential services. By fostering collaboration across sectors, Task Force is working to break down barriers between the health and aged care systems to create sustainable, long-term solutions.
2025
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Prof Kathy Eagar / AM Researcher
