Transition Care Program

What we do

The Transition Care Program (TCP) provides short-term care and services for older people (and sometimes younger people) after they leave hospital. By offering maintenance (low level) therapy and support the TCP allows older people to continue their recovery out of hospital while appropriate long-term care is arranged.

TCP can either be provided in a bed-based care setting or in your own home. 

To receive TCP you will need to be assessed and approved by the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) while you are in hospital.

Most people will stay on the program for four to six weeks. The maximum time you can stay on the program is 12 weeks.

The type of care you receive will depend on what you need and where you receive TCP. Services may include:

• Case management
• Nursing
• Domestic home care, such as cleaning services
• Meal assistance
• Help with bathing and showering
• Organisation of appointments (including transport)
• Social activities
• Maintenance therapy as provided by allied health staff such as a physiotherapist
• Continence aids
• Equipment, as recommended by the physiotherapist or occupational therapist, such as a shower chair
• In–home respite.

Who we care for

Typically older people who have been in hospital for a length of time, and who have been approved by the ACAS as appropriate for TCP.

What are the costs

TCP receives funding from the Victorian and Australian governments, which covers most of the cost of the program; however, you are also asked to pay a fee to contribute to the cost of your care.

TCP is not covered by private health insurance.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs recipients are not exempt from fees unless you were a prisoner of war.

The maximum fee is determined by the Australian Government and is calculated as follows:

• Home-based clients – daily rate of 17.5 per cent of current single aged pension
• Bed-based clients – daily rate of 85 per cent of current single aged pension

If you are unable to pay the fee, please discuss this with your case manager. If applying for a fee reduction you may be asked to show proof of your income and financial situation.

You cannot be refused a service if you are unable to pay due to financial hardship. Fees can be reviewed and discussed with your case manager at any time.

How to access this service

No external referrals accepted

You can only access this service when you are staying in hospital and have been referred by a Bendigo Health clinician.