TLC Healthcare (TLC) has been a recognised industry leader in its approach to managing COVID-19 in its residential aged care homes. They have been at the forefront of identifying new infection control practices that can be implemented to protect their aged care community, including residents, their family members, support persons, friends, staff and contractors.

The approval of rapid antigen testing for use by medical practitioners in Australia by the Therapeutic Good Administration was the catalyst for TLC Healthcare to commence an innovative testing regime across their residential aged care homes.

The challenges of introducing a test that was unfamiliar to most Australians at that time were unique. The support of their community was imperative to ensure the success of TLC Healthcare’s rapid antigen testing program. TLC Healthcare needed to communicate quickly and effectively the benefits of their rapid antigen testing program to their community to ensure acceptance and compliance.

Within 14 days, TLC Healthcare developed and implemented an effective and successful communications program utilising the national media alongside a suite of direct comunications to provide greater safety for residents, visitors, staff, and contractors.

The program was a success, and TLC currently delivers over 10,000 rapid antigen tests a week to residents, family members, support persons, friends, visitors, staff and contractors. To date, TLC has administered over 375,000 rapid antigen tests.

For information about TLC, visit tlcagedcare.com.au