Dr Maneesh Kuruvilla1,2, Dr Tony Mendoza Diaz1, Dr Clare Ramsden1
1Tasmanian Health Service, Hobart, Australia, 2University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
Biography:
Maneesh is a Clinical Neuropsychology Registrar in the Tasmanian Health Service.
Abstract:
Purpose:
This project aims to explore the impact of recent amendments to the Tasmanian Guardianship and Administration Act on decision-making ability assessments in older adults. It will present findings from a three-phase research project examining changes in assessment rates, outcomes, and perspectives of health practitioners.
Scope:
Decision-making ability assessments play a crucial role in safeguarding the autonomy and welfare of older adults. Recent amendments to the Act have introduced changes to how decision-making capacity is evaluated and applied in practice. This project focuses on inpatient decision-making ability assessments conducted at Tasmania’s three major public hospitals (RHH, LGH, and NWRH) as well as the experiences of inpatient/outpatient health practitioners across the state.
Issues:
Amendments to the Act represent significant policy changes, but their practical implications on decision-making ability assessments remain unclear. The project addresses critical gaps in understanding the impact of these changes on assessment rates, outcomes, and opportunities and/or challenges faced by practitioners. It also seeks to identify education needs to ensure health professionals are equipped to conduct effective and consistent assessments.
Outcomes:
Findings will highlight trends in decision-making assessments pre (Phase 1) and post (Phase 2) enactment of the amendment in September 2024, with a focus on their frequency, outcomes, and alignment with legislative requirements. Insights from Phase 3 will shed light on real-world experiences of Tasmanian health practitioners, identifying key challenges and potential professional development areas. Ultimately, the project will provide evidence-based recommendations to support policy implementation and enhance the quality of decision-making assessments for older adults.