As a previous member of the Board of Directors of Lower North Health, and now as a member of the Lower North Health Advisory Council Inc (HAC), it was with some disappointment that I read your article regarding aged care facilities in last week’s edition.

The issue of elder abuse is one I am confident that the general community abhors, and one that both the previous Board and current HAC would not tolerate. Your article (by implication) suggests that neither of the reported incidents of elder abuse were handled appropriately which by implication suggests that the previous Board’s, the current HAC’s and management’s position are at variance with stated policy.

In early 2008 the Board of Lower North Health were made aware of an allegation of elder abuse. Policies and procedures were in place for the proper dealing with of such allegations and these were enacted. These include reporting the matter to the Police and the Commonwealth Dept of Health & Ageing. The Board, in conjunction with Country Health SA, also undertook its own investigation and appointed an independent external investigator to do this.

In relation to the allegations of elder abuse earlier this year, I have confidence that the conclusion drawn (that the allegations were unsubstantiated) was correct and that the necessary intense scrutiny of the issue occurred.

The Lower North HAC is a voluntary body, representing the community in advising Government on the health needs of the local community. We are as concerned as any members of the community that allegations of elder abuse are investigated thoroughly.

I would encourage all members of the community to become involved, express their view, and raise issues with us to assist in making sure that our community has the necessary health services for both current and future generations.

TONY GWYNN-JONES

Presiding Member

Lower North Health Advisory Council Inc