How do I get a Home Care Package?
Navigating home care can be an overwhelming time for many, especially when it comes to finding a Home Care Package.
A1 Nursing Services are here to help
Here are five important steps to getting a home care package:
Step 1: Call My Aged Care (MAC) To Request an Assessment
Call MAC on 1800 200 422 and request an assessment. You will be asked a series of questions to determine if you need an in-person assessment from the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).
Even if you don't need support immediately, start the process early, as the wait can be long.
Step 2: An ACAT Assessor Will Visit You At Home
During your appointment, the ACAT Assessor will ask you more questions to determine the level of care you need, what you're eligible for and your priority.
The four levels of support you will be assessed for are:
Level 1 - Basic care needs
Level 2- Low level care needs
Level 3 - Intermediate care needs
Level 4 - High care needs
Step 3: Receive Your Results
You will get a letter from MAC letting you know the outcome of your assessment. If you are eligible for support, you will be approved for a specific level (1,2,3 or 4).
You will be placed in the national queue and have to wait until a package becomes available to be assigned to you.
Step 4: You Are Assigned Your Package
When you reach the top of the queue, you will receive another letter confirming you have been assigned a Package - Congratulations!
You could also be assigned a lower level while you wait for your higher-level package to become available.
Step 5: Choose A Home Care Package Provider
After you have been approved for a package, you will need to find a government-approved Home Care Package Provider. A Provider is required to administrate your package for you.
Make sure you do your research and find the right provider for you. When you choose your Provider, you will give them the unique Referral Code on your letter from MAC so that they can accept your package and start your funding.
And always remember that A1 Nursing Services can help you sort through the confusion so you can get the support you need as soon as possible.
