We profile 2024 Future of Ageing Award recipient Mirus Australia – winner of the Technology: Business category for their Mirus Metrics solution. The award was presented at a dinner in Sydney on August 29 – view all of the winners here…
Mirus Metrics, a SaaS solution developed by advisory Mirus Australia, is transforming the aged care sector by providing advanced data analytics and insights, addressing the specific funding and compliance requirements of aged care providers.
By integrating with Medicare, the platform delivers comprehensive insights into key performance indicators such as resident classifications, funding, occupancy, financial performance, and care delivery metrics. Leveraging sophisticated algorithms and machine learning, Mirus Metrics enables predictive analytics, allowing aged care providers to anticipate trends and make proactive decisions.
Identifying the problem
The transition from the Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) to the Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC) model introduced significant challenges for aged care providers. Unlike the ACFI model, which focused more on reporting and basic data management, AN-ACC requires real-time data analytics, strategic planning, and proactive decision-making.
Many providers were unaware of the complexities involved in AN-ACC compliance, resulting in delayed adoption of necessary processes. This gap in understanding highlighted the need for a specialised solution to streamline operations and ensure compliance.
How it came about
Through extensive consultations with aged care providers, industry experts, and regulatory bodies, Mirus Australia recognised the necessity for a comprehensive platform that integrates clinical, workforce, and financial processes. In 2022, Mirus Australia launched an AN-ACC Transition Service, assisting over 60 organisations managing more than 40,000 beds.
Feedback from these organisations confirmed the need for a solution that not only facilitated compliance but also enhanced operational efficiency. As a result, Mirus Metrics was developed to provide scenario planning, industry benchmarking, and seamless data integration.
“I use the scenario planning tool every day to ensure I review our residents monthly, which helps maintain our ADS, and promptly enables us to determine changes with the residents needs on a regular basis”.
Christine Yanson, Compliance and AN-ACC Administrator, Emmy Monash Aged Care
How it works
Mirus Metrics was designed to support aged care facilities in managing the AN-ACC transition. Mirus Australia invested over $2 million in its development, ensuring it meets the sector’s evolving needs.
Key features:
- AN-ACC Management: Monitor assigned AN-ACC classifications and pending reclassification requests.
- Predictive Forecasting: Assign AN-ACC forecasts to residents and pre-admission prospects.
- Data Integration: Upload key evidence documents and funding assessment notes.
- Performance Measurement: Access KPIs to evaluate operational success.
- Scenario Planning: Model case mix performance and compliance impacts ahead of roster releases.
- Industry Benchmarking: Compare facility KPIs and assessment trends with industry data.
Implementation & Support
Mirus Metrics integrates seamlessly with existing systems, ensuring a smooth transition. Mirus Australia provides extensive training and ongoing support through Mirus Academy, including workshops and webinars.
Additionally, continuous platform updates align with regulatory changes and industry best practices. The IT environment is certified under ISO 27001, ensuring robust data security measures.
Overcoming market resistance
Some aged care providers were initially reluctant to move away from traditional spreadsheet-based processes. Mirus Australia addressed these concerns by demonstrating that Mirus Metrics is not merely an enhancement but an essential tool for ensuring compliance and optimising financial and operational performance under AN-ACC.
Providers often focused on potential funding increases without considering the compliance requirements tied to these funds. Mirus Metrics helps them understand that while funding may be higher, failure to meet care minute requirements could lead to regulatory and funding consequences.
Key contributors to the project
- Robert Covino (Director of Innovation & Technology)
- Andrew Farmer (CEO)
- Katie Airey (Senior Healthcare Professional)
- Chris Lyons & Stephen Rowan (Industry Specialists)
- Tyler Fisher (Data Scientist)
- Alejandro Moran (Head of AI Engineering)
- Luke Coe (Chief Technology Officer)
- Khanh Nguyen (Data Architect)
Evidence of success
Mirus Australia was the first software developer to achieve web services-ready status from Services Australia across multiple aged care categories.
Since January 2023, the platform’s monthly usage has increased by 67%, with over 3,600 logins recorded in May. More than 100 aged care organisations now subscribe to Mirus Metrics, representing over 90,000 residential aged care beds and $8.3 billion in revenue under management.
Providers utilising Mirus Metrics’ scenario planning capabilities outperform industry averages in staffing compliance, with 71% achieving a 3-star rating or higher, compared to the industry average of 58%.
Mirus Metrics is revolutionising aged care by transforming data into actionable insights. Its exclusive AN-ACC management capabilities empower providers to deliver sustainable, person-centred care while maintaining compliance and optimising financial performance.
By aligning with industry best practices and regulatory requirements, Mirus Metrics stands out as an essential technology for the future of aged care.
Mirus Australia’s Rob Covino was a presenter at the 2024 Future of Ageing Conference.
