Home Care Package providers are essential in Australia’s aged care industry. They help older Australians access the care and support they need through Home Care Package funding, allowing them to continue living in their cherished homes.
As our population ages, the ability to age in place has never been more important. Providers like Trilogy Care are here to support you, offering self-management options that give you greater control and ensure you get the most value from your Home Care Package.
What do Home Care Package providers do?
The Department of Health advises that Home Care Package providers should collaborate with care recipients to tailor care and services to support your specific needs and goals. That’s why choosing a provider who truly has your best interests in mind is essential.
Home Care Package providers will work with you to develop a care plan and manage your budget. These are critical, as your care plan and budget determine the type and amount of support you can access each day.
Your care plan and budget are based on your ACAT assessment and further refined by your provider to meet your unique requirements. In addition, your provider takes care of the daily administration of your package—this includes matching you with a care partner, paying invoices, and offering budget management support.
Why do I need a Home Care Package provider?
To start receiving your support services, you must sign up with a registered Home Care Package provider. This is because providers are legally responsible for delivering services according to national requirements.
Providers ensure that care recipients receive high-quality care and that funds are managed properly, in line with national standards and regulations. Additionally, the cost of managing these services must be considered ‘reasonable’ and agreed upon in advance.
At a minimum, all Home Care Package providers must:
- Provide a monthly statement for care recipients
- Conduct an annual review of your Home Care Agreement and care plan
Choosing a provider
It’s important to consider what type of Home Care Package provider best suits your lifestyle and needs. There are two kinds of providers – fully managed and self-managed.
Both fully managed and self-managed Home Care Packages have advantages and disadvantages. It’s crucial to think about which type of provider can best meet your care and support requirements.
In short, self-management allows you to choose your own care workers, set their working hours, negotiate rates, and is typically more cost-effective. However, if you feel you may struggle to organise your care, fully managed providers can coordinate this for you—though they often charge higher fees for this service.
Another option to consider is Trilogy Care’s Self Managed PLUS service. This option offers care coordination for less than traditional providers. For more information on self-managed and fully managed Home Care Package providers, click here.
To discuss which option is best for your lifestyle and care needs, contact us at any time or call our team on 1300 459 190.
