Why Better@Home?

Your home is likely to be the place where you feel most comfortable, so it makes sense to continue your recovery, and regain mobility and function, in the comfort of your own home instead of staying in the hospital.

Why have I been selected for the program?

Your care team has referred you to this program because they feel you could benefit from some extra help when you go home. We will focus on achieving your recovery goals, and help you on the road to recovery as fast as possible.

Is there a cost for the Better@Home program?

There is no cost for the services provided as part of the Better@Home program.

Equipment (e.g. showering/toileting/walking aids) will be provided to you at no cost while you are a patient of the Better@Home program. If equipment is required after you are discharged from the program, then the hospital will continue to pay hire costs for a further 30 days.

What happens if I don’t feel well when I am at home?

If you don’t feel well at home but it is not an emergency, then you or your carer can contact us via phone on 9496 5000 and ask to speak to the Better@Home team. We will be happy to provide advice or arrange a visit by a member, and if needed, we can organise for you to return to the hospital.

If it is an emergency and you can’t wait at home, you or your carer should call 000 and return to the Austin Hospital Emergency Department for further assessment and help.

Can I still see my GP?

The Better@Home team can help with your medical needs. If you need to see your GP (for repeat prescriptions or medical certificates), please let us know and we can help with your query.

We will let your GP know of your admission to this service, and a discharge summary will be sent to your GP once you are no longer in the program.

If you choose to visit your GP while you are on the Better@Home program, Medicare bulk billing for your GP visit will not be possible as you are still considered an inpatient at Austin Health.