The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is so concerned about the handling of the coronavirus outbreak at Sydney’s Newmarch House, it is considering revoking its licence.

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is so concerned about the handling of the coronavirus outbreak at Sydney’s Newmarch House, it is considering revoking its licence.
Sixteen residents of the Anglicare-run aged care facility have died after contracting COVID-19.
The Commission said it is concerned about the lack of information being provided to patients and their families, and the lack of suitable processes in place to control transmission of the virus at the facility.
The Commission has also identified four key areas where operator Anglicare may have breached Aged Care Quality Standards.
They are: patient dignity and choice; personal and clinical care; ongoing planning with residents; and organisational governance.
Anglicare has been given until 5pm tomorrow to respond to the Commission’s concerns and appoint an independent adviser to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents.
As of today there have been 66 confirmed COVID-19 cases at Newmarch House of 29 staff and 37 residents.
Daily testing began last weekend.
The Western Sydney aged care home has been in lockdown since mid-April after a staff member who tested positive to coronavirus worked six shifts while showing symptoms of the deadly bug.
Anglicare Sydney CEO Grant Millard said it acknowledged the regulatory action of the Commission and the appointment of a independent adviser.
“While the outbreak at Newmarch House has proved very challenging for all involved, the situation has substantially improved.
“We will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders as we work through the continuing challenges in the coming weeks.
“Our primary concern remains the health, wellbeing and safety of our residents, their families, and our staff.”
More to come.