Health Minister Tom Osborne says it’s concerning to hear that some private personal care homes are raising rates after government subsidies were increased last month.

Since government increased the subsidy rate, residents of certain privately-run long-term care facilities have been notified that their monthly rates have increased dramatically.

That’s a serious issue for private pay residents who are not subsidized, and have to pay out-of-pocket.

Minister Osborne admits that that’s a concern. He’s encouraging personal care homes to consider the impact and work with residents affected. He says some residents may now be eligible for the subsidy, where previously they were not.