The shift from ACFI to AN-ACC has completely transformed aged-care funding, workforce requirements and daily operations. For nurses and carers, the challenge is no longer simply understanding the model — it’s applying AN-ACC principles at the bedside, in documentation, and through multidisciplinary collaboration.
Why AN-ACC Matters for Nurses and Carers
AN-ACC links funding directly to resident acuity and clinical complexity. That means accurate assessments, timely reporting and holistic care planning are critical. Your clinical decisions now impact not only resident outcomes but facility resources.
Key Changes That Affect Daily Practice
Increased emphasis on mobility and functional assessments
– Mobility scoring affects classification weightings more than ever.More frequent review cycles
– Facilities can trigger reassessments sooner, requiring better documentation standards.Greater accountability for allied health collaboration
– RNs, ENs, PCAs and AINs must all contribute to data that informs the AN-ACC profile.Higher weighting for behaviour, cognition and mental health needs
– Dementia and behavioural support planning now directly influence funding.
Clinical Documentation That Matters Most
Pain assessments
Falls risk and incident reports
Pressure injury documentation
BPSD plans
Care minutes compliance
Consistency is key. Every staff member contributes to the accuracy of a resident’s profile.
Best Practice for AN-ACC Aligned Care
Document in real time
Report even subtle changes to the RN
Ensure care plans reflect both chronic and acute issues
Use structured tools (e.g., Abbey Pain Scale, Waterlow, Braden)
Involve family and allied health early
