Information for carers
We believeit is important to include families and/or partners in each individuals care and makes every effort to do so by maintaining regular contact with the patient and family/carers throughout admission.
Carer’s Certificates
Medical staff can issue you a Carer’s Certificate to attend appointments with your relative/friend.
Payment
Baringa is a publicly funded service. All care is provided free of charge. However, your relative/friend has the choice to be admitted as a private patient.
Many patients with private health insurance opt to use their private health insurance for their stay at Baringa. There are no out-of-pocket expenses while admitted as a private patient. It helps to support Baringa to continue to improve services through payments received by the private health funds.
Please do not hesitate to speak with our staff for more information. Private patients cannot be guaranteed private rooms or extra services.
Find out more about being a private patient.
Access to information about medication
You have the right to information about any treatment provided you are directly involved in your relative or friend’s care. The pharmacist will discuss medications with you before discharge. Medications can also be discussed with the treating team, with the patient’s consent.
Who to call if you have concerns
The medical team will be happy to hear your concerns or queries about your relative/friend. We will give you the relevant contacts, phone numbers and the location where follow-up will take place after discharge.
Attending follow-up meetings
Whether you should attend depends on your relative/friend’s needs. These needs may change over time. The treating team will discuss appointments, support networks and the discharge plan at the final meeting.
Accessing carer support
Alfred Health understands that admission of a relative/friend into Baringa can be a very stressful time.
To support you, the Carer Consultant is available to meet with you on Tuesday and Wednesday. She has the ‘lived experience’ of caring for a relative with mental ill-health. Our Carer Consultant can assist you with emotional, practical support and information. Ask the nursing staff or contact them directly on (03) 9076 6184.