When we get your completed form, we will arrange a needs assessment. This assessment is carried out to make sure that you get the right support in the right place.
The support you get may be in your own home or another setting such as day care.
What happens during the needs assessment
A healthcare professional will do a needs assessment.
This is usually done by a public health nurse (PHN), physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
They will look at:
- your ability to do everyday activities like bathing, shopping, dressing and moving around
- any medical, health and other support services you already get
- family and community support available to you
- your own wishes and preferences
After the assessment
After your assessment, we will consider your application for home support. We will write to you to tell you the outcome of your application.
This decision is based on your needs assessment and any other community supports available to you.
If your application is approved
We will send you a letter if your application for home support is approved.
If you have requested Consumer Directed Home Support (CDHS), we will also tell you if this was approved.
If your application is approved while you are in hospital, you may get support to help you return home. Shortly after you return home, your needs will be assessed again. If your needs have changed, your home support may be adjusted
Your home support service will be provided by our staff or by an approved home support provider. These providers have an agreement with us to deliver services on our behalf.
Choosing an approved home support provider
If your application is not approved
We will send you a letter if your application for home support is not approved. This decision is based on your needs assessment.
If you are not happy with the decision, you can write to your local home support office within 20 days of getting the letter.
In your letter, explain why you are not satisfied with the decision. The decision will be reviewed fairly and we will let you know the outcome.
If your needs change
If anything about your situation changes, you or someone acting on your behalf should contact your local home support office.
Changes can include:
- becoming more independent as your health improves
- being admitted to hospital
- staying in hospital or a nursing home for respite care
- temporarily staying with family or relatives
We will review the home support you receive. Based on your needs, we may increase, reduce, or keep your support the same.