Care assessments of fire victims sped up

The federal government has fast-tracked care assessments so a group of elderly people from bushfire ravaged Victoria can receive emergency respite care.

Minister for Ageing Justine Elliot said it was a one-off measure to give them immediate access to accommodation and care.

It will apply until they are able to make longer-term arrangements or decide they wish to be admitted to aged care on a permanent basis, she said.

Mrs Elliot said the government had removed the requirement for prior Aged Care Assessment Team assessments for older people affected by the fires.

"This is about getting the support older Victorians need whether it is a nursing home or help at home," she said in a statement.

Article from http://news.ninemsn.com.au