The Victorian Aged Care Response Centre (VACRC) is coordinating testing of asymptomatic staff in Victorian aged care facilities.
- Since late October, the cumulative total of tests recorded in 729 individual aged care facilities is 64,477 staff.
- This is week 12 of asymptomatic testing. Over a 4 week period it is expected that all aged care facilities will have taken part in asymptomatic testing to staff.
- Since December 30, VACRC has contacted 257 aged care facilities across Victoria that are in, or adjacent to, nominated COVID-19 exposure sites. VACRC has confirmed the facilities outbreak preparedness plans and expedited the routine asymptomatic testing.
VACRC is working closely with the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services to align testing requirements. The Australian Government’s testing program has scheduled residential aged care facilities’ workforce to be tested fortnightly in metropolitan Melbourne, and monthly in regional Victoria.
Meeting ongoing needs
The Victorian Aged Care Response Centre (VACRC) is continuing to support and work with the health services hub network, Victorian Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Public Health Unit, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, the independent Older Persons Advocacy Network and residential aged care facilities to meet the ongoing needs and requirements of residents, staff, families and associated communities.
The Victorian Aged Care Response Centre is a joint arrangement between the federal and state governments, bringing together more than 150 staff from 28 agencies. Its priorities are focused on:
- Care and safety of residents
- Safety of staff
- Unifying effort across agencies
- Rapid identification and prioritisation of outbreaks
- Rapid response and intervention
- Prevention of outbreaks
- Effective communication and engagement
- Preserving the health care system
