Newly obtained freedom of information documents reveal that senior health officials were alerted to serious concerns about a government algorithm used to assess home support for older Australians just weeks after its launch. The warnings highlight fears that people with dementia could be discouraged from applying due to potential downgrades in their care eligibility. The system determines both funding levels and priority for home support services, raising questions about its fairness and impact on vulnerable populations. The revelations underscore ongoing scrutiny over how automated tools shape critical healthcare decisions.
Exclusive: FoI documents show senior health officials were warned of concerns about assessment tool weeks after it launchedGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastPeople with dementia were warned not to apply for home support because of fears their care would be downgraded by the government’s aged care algorithm.Documents released to Guardian Australia under freedom of information (FoI) laws reveal the warnings came within weeks of the November rollout of the algorithm, which is used to determine funding packages and priority of need for older Australians requiring home support. Continue reading...
