Understanding the 2024 Home Care Package funding increase

Understanding the 2024 Home Care Package funding increase

In welcome news to care recipients, the Federal Government have announced an increase to the Home Care Package subsidies and supplements, effective 1 July 2024.  This adjustment is part of an ongoing effort to maintain the quality and sustainability of care services for older Australians, ensuring they receive the best possible support in their homes.

Trilogy Care is pleased to confirm that it is not making any changes to its fee structure and will continue to charge a low fixed percentage from your package each month.

What's changed?

The funding adjustment involves an increase in the overall subsidy for all Home Care Package levels, in addition to an increase to supplement amounts. This increase is necessary to account for rising operational costs and to ensure that care providers can continue to deliver high-quality services.

The government subsidy and Trilogy Care pricing for each package level is as follows:

Self Managed (15%)

Self Managed PLUS (26%) 

The 1 July 2024 changes to the Home Care Package funding structure underscore the commitment to sustaining and enhancing the quality of home-based care, ensuring that older Australians continue to receive the support they need most efficiently and effectively.

The above pricing is to be used as guide. For more information on the subsidy increase and how it will change your personal Home Care Package, please log onto the Trilogy Care Portal or speak to your care partner.

Income Tested Fees

If your income is above a certain threshold, your home care package provider must collect a fee on behalf of Services Australia. Here are the details.

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Ensuring your invoices and reimbursements are paid quickly

invoice reimbursements bill Trilogy Care quickly

At Trilogy Care, we understand how important timely payments are, and we strive to process and pay invoices within 14 days of submission. However, delays can sometimes occur due to incomplete invoices, budget shortfalls, or unapproved items. To help ensure your invoices and reimbursements are processed smoothly and on time, we’ve put together this helpful guide with key tips to avoid common hold-ups.

1. Submit bills and reimbursements online

When you submit your invoices or reimbursement requests online, they are entered into our system immediately. You can find the submission links in the website header or in the Trilogy Care Portal.

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To avoid delays, please refrain from resubmitting an invoice or reimbursement, as this can create duplicates and extend processing times.

2. Submit complete invoices only

Incomplete invoices or reimbursement requests may cause delays, as our team needs to gather additional information before they can be processed.

To ensure a smooth and timely payment process, please make sure your invoice includes:

  • Date of service
  • Business name
  • Business ABN
  • Care recipient information
  • An itemised list of services or products included
  • Invoice amount
  • GST amount (if applicable)
  • Total invoice amount

Providing all the necessary details upfront helps us process your payment efficiently.

3. Support service or carer compliance checks

If you are a support worker, please ensure that all required compliance documents have been submitted and your compliance check is complete before submitting any invoices.

If you are a care recipient, we recommend confirming that your support services have completed their compliance checks before they begin working with you.

4. Available budget

A common reason invoices or reimbursements may be delayed is insufficient funds in the available Home Care Package budget. Care recipients can check their available budget anytime through the Trilogy Care Portal or by contacting their care partner for assistance.

5. Care plan coverage

For an item or service to be covered by your Home Care Package, it must be included in your Care Plan. If it’s a new service or amendment of hourly rates/ number of hours, please reach out to your care partner for these changes to be added in your budget so that we can process your invoices seamlessly. Ensure you are aware of inclusions and exclusions.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your invoices and reimbursements are processed smoothly and without delays.

If you are experiencing payment delays, you can review your current bills through the Trilogy Care Portal or contact our Accounts Team at 1300 459 190 for assistance.

Stay connected and manage your care with ease. Visit the Trilogy Care Portal to view your Care Plan and access important resources.

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Can I manage my own Home Care Package?

A content elderly couple smiles warmly, overlaid with symbolic graphics representing home and family.

Can I manage my own Home Care Package? You now have the option to take greater control by self-managing your Home Care Package. 

As the demand for choice and control in-home care services continues to grow, you now have the option to take greater control of your care by self-managing your Home Care Package (HCP). This approach to managing your Home Care Package allows you to choose your support services and free up your Home Care Package budget. What’s more, self-management usually means lower provider costs, saving you more of your HCP budget for care and services.

Understanding Home Care Packages

Home Care Packages are government-subsidised programs designed to provide tailored support services to older Australians who wish to continue living independently at home. These packages offer a range of services, including personal care, nursing, allied health, and domestic assistance, based on individual needs and preferences.

The option to self-manage

Traditionally, Home Care Packages were managed by approved care providers, limiting individuals’ control over the types of services and their scheduling. However, the introduction of Consumer-Directed Care (CDC) now gives recipients the option to self-manage their Home Care Package funds.

Benefits of self-management:

Choice and control

Opting to self-manage your Home Care Package provides the autonomy to choose specific services that align with your unique needs. Whether it’s personal care, gardening assistance, or allied health services, you have the flexibility to allocate funds where they matter most.

Flexibility in service delivery

Self-management affords the flexibility to schedule services at times convenient for you. This adaptability ensures that your care plan is not only comprehensive but also aligns seamlessly with your lifestyle and personal preferences.

Direct engagement with care workers and support services

Taking charge of your Home Care Package enables direct communication with your care workers and support services. This fosters a more personal and collaborative approach to care, allowing for better coordination and ensuring services align with your specific goals and expectations.

Learn how to find care workers and service providers.

Financial transparency

Self-management ensures a clear understanding of your budget and how funds are allocated. This financial transparency empowers you to make informed decisions about your care plan and budget, ensuring you maximise the value of your Home Care Package.

In addition, Trilogy Care provider fees are charges at the low rate of 15% of your Home Care Package budget, with no daily management fees or exit fees. Spending less on your provider fees means more money in your budget for care and services.

Learn more about Trilogy Care’s transparent pricing here on our pricing page.

Empowerment and independence

Active participation in your care decisions promotes a sense of empowerment and independence. This newfound control positively impacts your well-being, fostering a greater sense of self-worth and confidence as you age in place.

Self-managing your Home Care Package is an option for those seeking a personalised and flexible approach to in-home care. The ability to choose services, control their scheduling, and directly engage with service providers allows you to enjoy a higher level of independence and an enhanced quality of life within the familiar confines of your home.

If you are eligible for a Home Care Package, consider exploring the option of self-management to tailor your care plan to your unique needs and preferences, ensuring a more fulfilling and empowered care experience.

Go to our Resources page to understand more about self-managing your Home Care Package.

Finding care workers or support services

Joyful elderly lady laughing with a younger woman, abstract heart shapes in the foreground.

Finding care workers or support services when self-managing your Home Care Package can be easy if you know how!

One of the benefits of self-managing your Home Care Package is having the flexibility to choose your care or support service providers.

There are many ways to find support services in your area and, depending on where you live, there could be many people in your area looking for new clients.

How to source support services

  • Workers are already working with you
  • Recommended by a friend, family member or health worker
  • Local service providers
  • Online support service platforms or carer marketplaces

Local support services can be found through

  • Local directory boards
  • Community support groups
  • Local newspapers
  • Google search
  • Social media groups

Online support service platforms or carer marketplaces include websites such as:

Engaging in community forums, such as online community groups, can provide insights into preferred service providers in your area.

Another critical aspect to consider is the compatibility between the carer and the client. This goes beyond professional qualifications and includes factors such as personality, interests, and communication style. A good match can significantly enhance the quality of care and the overall experience for both parties. Some online platforms offer matching services based on these criteria, so it’s worth investigating these options.

Finally, always ensure that the service providers you are considering have a transparent pricing structure. Understanding the costs involved upfront can help you manage your Home Care Package funds more effectively and avoid any unexpected expenses. Regularly reviewing and assessing your care needs and the effectiveness of your chosen providers is also important to ensure you are getting the best value and care possible

If you need help understanding what to look for when finding care worker or support service, you can read our article on factors to consider when choosing a carer or service provider.

It’s important to note that service providers will need correct qualifications and complete Trilogy Care compliance checks to be paid under your Home Care Package funds. You can read more about service provider qualification requirements on our carer qualifications page.

By taking these additional factors into account, you can make a more informed decision when choosing care or service providers for your Home Care Package, ensuring a more satisfying and effective care experience.

Home Care Package Providers: Transitioning Guide

Switching to a new Home Care Package provider can be a significant change for those receiving home care services. In this article, we delve into the typical expectations and key aspects to anticipate when switching Home Care Package providers.

There are several reasons why you might consider switching Home Care Providers. Perhaps you’re seeking a provider more aligned with your needs and objectives, or you’re looking to maximize your home care package by opting for a company with lower administrative and case management fees. It could also be due to relocating to a new area and needing to find a provider closer to your new location. Trilogy Care serves nationwide from its Brisbane base. When managing your own home care package, you have the freedom to choose local carers. Utilise platforms like Mable, an online carer marketplace, to easily find suitable professionals in your area. Explore our article for more tips on finding service providers.

Research and decision-making

Before making the switch, it’s important to research potential providers. Look for Home Care Package providers who can meet your specific needs, have a good reputation, and offer services that align with your personal and healthcare requirements.

Initial contact and assessment

Once you’ve chosen a new provider, you will need to contact them to discuss your needs and arrange an initial assessment. This assessment will help the provider understand your care needs and preferences.

Exiting your current provider

Inform your current provider about your decision to switch. You should understand any notice periods or fees involved in terminating your agreement with them.

Transfer of Home Care Package

Your Home Care Package funding will need to be transferred from your current provider to the new one. To transfer your Home Care Package funding, you will need to contact My Aged Care to reactivate your Home Care Package referral code. Once you have your referral code, you pass that code onto your new Home Care Package provider. This is activate your Home Care Package with your new provider.

Customising your care plan

With your new Home Care Package provider, you’ll develop a care plan. This plan should outline the services you will receive, how often, and by whom. Make sure this plan is tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Adjustment period

After the switch, there will be an adjustment period as you get used to new caregivers and routines. Communication is key during this period. Feel free to provide feedback or request changes to your care plan if necessary.

Ongoing communication and review

Regularly communicate with your new provider about your care and any changes in your needs. Periodic reviews of your care plan will ensure that the services continue to meet your evolving needs.

Understanding your rights and advocacy

Be aware of your rights under the Home Care Package program. If you have concerns or complaints about your new provider, you should feel empowered to speak up or seek advocacy support.

Remember, each individual’s experience may vary based on their unique needs and circumstances, and the providers involved. It’s important to stay informed and proactive throughout the process to ensure a smooth transition and the best possible care.

If you haven’t heard of self-managed home care, make sure you understand the difference between self-managed and fully managed home care packages.  If you still have some concerns, check out our frequently asked questions for more help. If you’re ready to start choosing a provider, check out our home care package provider comparison guide to help you decide.

Home Care Package providers - making the right choice for you

Home Care Package providers - making the right choice for you

Home Care Packages are designed to help you maintain your independence and lifestyle in your own home.

Whether you’re researching your options or you’ve been approved for a Home Care Package, there are so many options and decisions, how do you know you’re making the right choice for you?

The first step is to select an approved Home Care Package provider to help you manage your plan and budget.

While Home Care Provider options may seem vast, there are two basic ways to manage your plan:

  1. Traditional providers
  2. Self-managed care

Traditional Home Care Package providers

Traditional service providers deliver fully managed home care, putting them in charge of every aspect of your care – from finances through to scheduling services and choosing the people who deliver them.

While a hands-off approach might sound appealing, it means you can’t necessarily control which members of their team are rostered to be in your home  or the price they charge for their services.

Fully managed home care also comes at a price. Traditional providers typically charge a monthly fee, daily fees and an inflated hourly rate for the delivery of services or support– a rate which includes hefty ‘middle-man’ fees on top of the direct service charge. This can have a significant impact on your budget.

Self-managed Home Care Package providers

Self-managed care is a new care model that allows the consumer to take control of the care services they need and the care providers they use. 

Unlike traditional providers, self management empowers the consumer to spend less on management fees, freeing up their Home Care Package budget for better long-term care and services.

Fees for a self-managed service are usually charged at a flat percentage rate, with no daily management fees or exit fees. And, because you can choose your own support providers, you know the service rate you’ll be charged.

The Trilogy Care difference

Trilogy Care is a registered Home Care Package provider. We offer two levels of self-managed home care – Self Managed and Self Managed PLUS. 

The Self-Management option allows you to take full control over your Home Care Package. The Self-Management Plus option is for those who need some care coordination support. 

All Trilogy Care clients have a dedicated care manager who is directly contactable by phone to  work with you to find the perfect support providers to suit your personality, lifestyle and needs, with control resting fully in your hands. And all charged under our fixed fee structure – no setup fee, no daily fee, no exit fee.

Would you like to know more about how to self-manage your Home Care Package? You can read more on our website. 

Inclusions and exclusions - Use of Home Care Packages funds

Clients often ask us what services and items they can and can not use or purchase from their Home Care Package.

At Trilogy Care, we partner with you to determine if the service, support, or purchase is directly linked to your identified care needs and goals (as per your ACAT assessment). Appropriate purchases may support daily living and are essential to keeping you safe at home, for longer. All purchases must be considered an acceptable use of government funds while fitting within your budget. All of things which Trilogy Care assists you with.

General Expenses

These are items that would usually be paid for with general household income, such as household bills and other basic living expenses.

Examples of items that are not covered:

  • White goods
  • Appliances
  • Car expenses
  • Waste removal
  • Gift vouchers
  • Medical expenses, funeral costs
  • Heaters
  • Air conditioner
  • Social clubs memberships
  • Ongoing internet or phone costs
  • Haircuts and manicures
  • Storage
  • Supplements and vitamins.

Home Modifications and Capital items

Any home modification made, must be clinically justified and reasonable. It must only be provided to a level of functional safety (to avoid a dangerous situation) and only to a level that is adequate to provide security.

Home modification for aesthetic or embellishments are not an appropriate use of a home care package.

Examples of items that would be covered:

  • Pathways into an around the home
  • Grab rails in bathrooms and toilets
  • Chairlifts and wheelchair platform lifts
  • Internal and External handrails
  • Widening doorways and passages
  • Lever taps and door handles
  • Installation of emergency alarms
  • Bathroom/Kitchen re-design
  • Ramps (permanent and temporary)
  • Handheld showers

Home Maintenance

Any work that is reasonably required to maintain the home and garden in a condition of functional safety (not decorations) and provide an adequate level of security. There would be minor home maintenance activities that you or partner would have previously done for you but can no longer do due to safety concerns.

Examples of items that are covered:

  • Cleaning gutters
  • Changing batteries in smoke alarms
  • Essential pruning, yard clearing or lawn mowing
  • Repair of internal flooring and external access pathways to address trip and slip hazards
  • Changing light bulbs or fixing a broken door
  • Minor plumbing, electrical and carpentry repairs where safety is a concern
  • Spring clean – windows/ceiling fans and other cleaning tasks at height around the home

Food and Food Preparation

The home care package cannot pay for groceries purchased at the supermarket or the raw ingredients of pre-prepared and packed meals

Your home care package can be used to pay for someone to help you prepare meals OR prepare meals for you at home.

A portion of the cost for pre-prepared meals like Meals on Wheels, Lite N Easy and Tender Loving Cuisine can be covered from your Home Care Package (please discuss with your Care Partner).

Transport Costs

If there is a state or local government funded initiative for the use of taxi vouchers, this will be used in the first instance (please discuss with your Care Partner).

Transport and personal assistance to help you get around the community to do your shopping, attend medical appointments or social activities.

Use of taxis or taxi vouchers must be well documented in your Care Plan with the intended purpose of their use linked to your assessed needs.

Glasses

Some people are eligible for glasses to be subsidised by the state government, we must first check your eligibility for those programs.

If you are ineligible or unable to obtain glasses through a state government funded program, the “like for like” cost for subsidized glasses can be covered.

Understanding the permissible uses of Home Care Package funds is crucial for maximising their benefits while ensuring compliance with regulations. By partnering with Trilogy Care, you gain access to expert guidance and support to navigate the complexities of funding allocations. Our commitment is to empower you to make informed decisions that align with your care needs and goals, ultimately enhancing your safety, comfort, and well-being at home.

Learn more about care plans here.