Streamlined Compliance: QIP’s Role in MPS and NSQHS Accreditation

Quality Innovation Performance Limited (QIP) proudly provides accreditation services to organisations seeking to meet the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards, including the Multi-Purpose Services (MPS) Aged Care Module. This accreditation ensures that small, regional, and remote communities across Australia receive high-quality, integrated health and aged care services.

What is the MPS Program?

The Multi-Purpose Services (MPS) Program, a collaborative initiative between the Australian Government and state and territory governments, integrates health and aged care services to meet the unique needs of small, regional, and remote communities. Facilities participating in this program are recognised by the Australian Government Department of Health and are assessed against the NSQHS Standards and the MPS Aged Care Module.

This approach exempts MPS facilities from undergoing separate assessments against the Aged Care Quality Standards, streamlining compliance while ensuring high standards of care across all services provided. The MPS Aged Care Module outlines six specific actions to meet aged care quality requirements that are not covered by the NSQHS Standards.

Development and endorsement of the MPS Aged Care Module

The Multi-Purpose Services Aged Care Module (the MPS Aged Care Module) was developed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission) in collaboration with the Australian Government, state and territory departments of health, and the Commission’s Multi-Purpose Services Project Advisory Committee. This module describes, in six actions, the requirements of the Aged Care Quality Standards not covered by the NSQHS Standards and is only applicable to eligible MPS.

Eligibility and accreditation

To be eligible for assessment against the NSQHS Standards and the MPS Aged Care Module, an MPS must be recognised by the Australian Government Department of Health as part of the MPS Program. Eligible MPS can then undergo a streamlined assessment process under the Australian Health Service Safety and Quality Accreditation (AHSSQA) Scheme.

Under contractual arrangements with the Australian Government Department of Health, eligible MPS are required to be assessed against the MPS Aged Care Module at the time of their next scheduled assessment to the NSQHS Standards. This requirement ensures that the outcomes of the six actions in the MPS Aged Care Module are counted towards their accreditation assessment outcome. These actions ensure comprehensive care and compliance across various service areas, focusing on:

1. Consumer dignity and choice: Ensuring that aged care services respect and promote the dignity and choice of consumers.
2. Ongoing assessment and planning with consumers: Continuous assessment and planning to meet the needs and preferences of consumers.
3. Personal and clinical care: Delivering safe and effective personal and clinical care to aged care consumers.
4. Services and supports for daily living: Providing the necessary services and support for daily living to enhance the quality of life for aged care consumers.
5. Organisation’s service environment: Creating and maintaining a safe and comfortable service environment.
6. Feedback and complaints: Establishing a system for feedback and complaints to drive improvements in service delivery.

The role of QIP in accreditation

QIP plays a crucial role in supporting MPS facilities through the accreditation process. We offer comprehensive support that includes personalised guidance, preparation resources for both the NSQHS Standards and the MPS Aged Care Module, and an ongoing partnership throughout the accreditation cycle.

Why accreditation matters

Accreditation against the NSQHS Standards and the MPS Aged Care Module is not just a regulatory requirement – it is a testament to the quality of care provided by MPS facilities. It demonstrates a commitment to delivering safe, high-quality care that meets the specific needs of aged care residents and the broader community.

Through the accreditation process, MPS facilities can ensure they are providing integrated health and aged care services that adhere to the highest standards. This integration is particularly important for small, regional, and remote communities, where access to comprehensive healthcare services can be limited.

Support and resources

QIP offers comprehensive support to MPS facilities through personalised guidance, preparation resources for NSQHS Standards and the MPS Aged Care Module, and ongoing partnership throughout the accreditation cycle.

For more information or personalised assistance, contact our team today.