Why your Aged Care facility needs a robust information management system, not just a spreadsheet 

By Andrew Farmer, CEO and Partner

In aged care, precision and efficiency in handling information aren’t optional; they are vital. This is especially true for Australian facilities operating under the Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC). These systems govern the way facilities are funded, and effective management of these processes directly influence a facility’s revenue stream and viability, every dollar counts. 

Spreadsheets might feel like a reliable and familiar tool, but in aged care today, they come with limitations and risks that can ultimately cost your facility both in compliance and in missed revenue opportunities. For most organisations, they were only created as a short-term measure. Here’s why aged care facilities should consider a purpose-built platform like our Mirus Metrics platform for managing AN-ACC processes and capturing GEO-located star ratings, accommodation pricing, and much more. 

 1. Ensuring data security and compliance 

Aged care facilities handle highly sensitive health information, which must be protected to prevent unauthorised access and potential data breaches. In recent years, cybersecurity breaches have become an increasing concern in Australia’s aged care sector, often with lasting impacts on reputation and credibility. 

Spreadsheets lack the inherent security features that a comprehensive management system like the Mirus Metrics platform provides. This purpose-built system, developed specifically for Australia’s aged care facilities, is ISO27001 accredited, which ensures a higher level of security and regulatory compliance. An accredited system is designed to meet stringent data protection standards, providing you and your residents peace of mind. 

 2. Managing complex funding and compliance needs 

With AN-ACC funding processes securing up to 80% of a facility’s revenue, efficient and accurate forecasting of resident classifications is critical. Spreadsheets, while helpful for simple data storage, aren’t built for the dynamic and complex requirements of AN-ACC, such as adjusting funding to match resident needs or forecasting classifications. 

Mirus Metrics allows facilities to optimise this funding process by offering precise forecasting tools. It helps identify scenarios where funding can be increased without compromising care quality or compliance. Facilities can create scenarios to understand how funding adjustments could impact quarterly targets. This isn’t just about maximising revenue but doing so in a way that respects and meets all compliance guidelines, aligning funding with the real care needs of residents. 

 3. Unlocking revenue potential 

The funding associated with AN-ACC is not static; it can be optimised by adjusting both care minutes and the funding tied to them. Facilities can increase revenue between $5,000 and $100,000 per quarter by continuously analysing and adjusting care minute delivery. 

A purpose-built platform like Metrics allows for quarterly target setting with dynamic care minute tracking, helping facilities understand where adjustments can maximise “funding recovery” without compromising care standards. This means more revenue for the facility, which can be reinvested in enhancing resident care, staffing, and facility improvements. This level of precision and real-time adjustment is virtually impossible with a spreadsheet. 

 4. Transparency and efficiency for operational teams 

In aged care, operational transparency and efficiency are critical to quality care and financial viability. A sophisticated system like Metrics can capture 100% of the data required for funding, reducing the risk of errors or missed revenue opportunities. 

For operational teams, the value of a well-designed, secure, and robust platform is immense. Metrics provides a structured process for all transactions, from data input to management reporting, reducing the time and effort required for tracking funding. This process improves communication across departments and enhances decision-making, as everyone has access to up-to-date and accurate information in a single platform. 

Spreadsheets, on the other hand, often lead to fragmented information, duplication, and the risk of human error—all of which detract from efficient operations and can lead to missed funding or compliance issues. 

 5. Enhanced reporting and analytics for informed decision-making 

To manage AN-ACC funding effectively, facilities need more than raw data; they need actionable insights. The Metrics platform supports data-driven decision-making by delivering high-quality analytics and reporting tools. Facilities can forecast, adjust, and track performance metrics to ensure every funding dollar is maximised and aligned with resident care needs. 

This level of insight empowers management teams to make strategic decisions that positively impact the bottom line. In contrast, spreadsheets lack the functionality needed to deliver real-time insights or generate comprehensive, scenario-based reporting. Instead, facilities are left sifting through static rows and columns of data, often spending extra hours analysing data rather than making timely, informed decisions. 

 6. Streamlined Star Rating and Accommodation Pricing management 

With Mirus Metrics, facilities gain access to unique features, such as geo-located star ratings and accommodation pricing management. This information is integral to marketing efforts, pricing strategies, and overall facility positioning. Managing this information within the Metrics platform allows facilities to keep their pricing competitive and transparent, and accurately reflect their quality of care. 

Spreadsheets cannot effectively manage these layered components, making it difficult for facilities to have a clear picture of how they stand in the market or to adjust pricing strategies based on real-time data. A purpose-built system like Metrics brings everything into one accessible platform, enabling more cohesive and informed pricing and rating strategies. 

 7. Scalability and Future-Proofing

As the aged care industry continues to evolve, so too must the systems that support it. The Mirus Metrics platform is built from scratch to handle the unique demands of Australia’s AN-ACC process, offering a foundation that can grow and adapt to future regulatory changes and facility needs. 

Spreadsheets, however, become increasingly challenging to scale as data complexity grows. They lack the flexibility and adaptability that a well-designed platform can offer. A purpose-built system is a long-term investment in your facility’s success, ensuring that as your needs grow, the system grows with you. 

Final Thoughts: Why a system is a wise investment over a spreadsheet 

While spreadsheets might seem like an affordable, accessible option for managing aged care processes, they come with significant limitations that can impact everything from security to revenue optimisation. For facilities that rely heavily on AN-ACC funding, the decision to upgrade to a specialised system like Mirus Australia’s Metrics platform offers a host of advantages, from improved data security and regulatory compliance to enhanced operational efficiency and data-driven insights. 

In a field where care quality, resident satisfaction, and financial sustainability are paramount, the right tools make all the difference. A demonstration of Mirus Metrics platform will show you how a purpose-built system can support your facility in capturing 100% of eligible funding, provide transparent reporting, and help you stay ahead in the competitive aged care sector. 

By choosing a robust, ISO27001-accredited platform over a spreadsheet, your facility will be well-equipped to handle today’s demands and tomorrow’s challenges—securely, efficiently, and profitably. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Metrics platform in action. Schedule your demonstration today and discover how your facility can maximise funding recovery, increase revenue, and enhance care delivery with a system that’s as dedicated to your success as you are.