Why are shift notes required?

The Department of Health and Aged Care oversees funding for Home Care Packages (HCP) and has set criteria to ensure the continuation of these services, including the mandatory recording of shift notes.

The regular observations by those providing services, help the HCP provider to better understand the client’s situation and are pivotal in detecting and responding to changes. This proactive approach assists care providers in adjusting support, which improves the recipient’s ability to maintain a safe and independent lifestyle at home for an extended period.

For more information of department requirements, you can refer to sections 3(d) and 3(e)Standard 3 of the Aged Care Quality Standards.