Need OT for AT-HM? Get the assessment you need at a fair rate

If you have been told you need an occupational therapy (OT) assessment to access Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM), it can feel like one more appointment to organise. But the OT assessment is an important step. It makes sure you receive the right equipment or home changes to stay safe, independent and comfortable at home.

This guide explains the AT-HM and OT pathway in simple language, with practical ways to keep wait times down and pricing fair.

What AT-HM funding is designed to cover

AT-HM sits alongside your main Support at Home services. It is separate funding that can be used for:

• Assistive technology, such as rails, shower chairs, mobility aids and safety equipment

• Home modifications, such as ramps, grab rails, lever taps or bathroom adjustments

Your approval for AT-HM will be shown in your aged care assessment documents. If you are unsure how to read them, your provider can walk you through what you are eligible for and how the funding works.

Why an OT assessment is usually required

Most AT-HM items, especially home modifications or higher-cost equipment, require an OT assessment first. The OT’s role is to:

• Understand how you move, manage daily activities and use your home

• Identify risks or barriers that could be improved with equipment or home changes

• Recommend solutions that are safe, practical and appropriate for your level of funding

• Provide a report that suppliers and trades can follow

A good OT focuses on your daily life, not on selling specific products.

The AT-HM OT pathway, step by step

Here is the process in simple, clear steps.

1. Confirm your AT-HM approval

Check your Notice of Decision or support plan. This shows:

• Whether AT-HM is included

• What level of funding you have

• Whether your approval covers equipment, home modifications or both

If anything is unclear, your provider can explain your funding tier and what it typically covers.

2. Ask your provider to organise the OT

Your provider coordinates the OT assessment, but you can usually request:

• A choice of suitably qualified OTs

• A local OT if you prefer

• A clear outline of OT costs before booking

If you use a self-managed model with Trilogy Care, you can often work with local OTs at fair local rates, while our team handles the paperwork and approvals.

3. Prepare for the assessment

A little preparation makes the assessment quicker and avoids repeat visits. Before the OT arrives, think about:

• Tasks you find difficult or unsafe

• Areas of the home that worry you (entries, bathrooms, steps)

• Any recent falls or mobility changes

• Photos of problem areas, if helpful

The OT will talk through your routines, observe how you move around your home and take measurements where needed.

4. Review the recommendations and quotes

After the visit, the OT writes a report recommending equipment or modifications. Your provider then:

• Obtains quotes

• Checks the costs against your AT-HM funding

• Confirms details with you before ordering or booking trades

Nothing should proceed without your approval.

How to keep OT pricing fair

OT fees vary depending on travel time, assessment length and reporting. To keep costs reasonable:

• Ask for an itemised quote so you know exactly what you are paying for

• Confirm which parts of the OT assessment are covered under AT-HM

• Check whether follow-up visits cost extra

• Request more than one quote if prices seem unusually high

Choosing a local OT can significantly reduce travel charges.

How to keep wait times under control

Wait times for OTs depend on location and demand. To avoid delays:

• Ask about average wait times before confirming the booking

• Offer flexible appointment windows

• Have your notes and information ready

• Provide photos or videos for simple items to speed up quoting

If your provider is slow to progress things, you can ask them for regular updates or request that the referral be escalated.

How Trilogy Care helps you get value from your AT-HM funding

Trilogy Care focuses on keeping your AT-HM funds working for you, not lost to unnecessary fees. With our self-managed model, you can:

• Work with suitably qualified local OTs at fair local rates

• Keep more of your AT-HM budget available for equipment and modifications

• Involve your family or a care partner in decisions, with your consent

• Follow a clear, calm process with guidance at every step

Most importantly, you stay in control. You choose the solutions that make your home easier and safer to live in, while Trilogy Care supports the coordination and ensures everything meets Support at Home rules.

If you are ready to start the AT-HM process, a good first step is asking your provider to outline your funding, your options and the next steps for booking an OT assessment at a fair rate.