Navigating the Aged Care system can be confusing and overwhelming, but those who do their homework can get a great result. That’s according to Sian Holman, Head of Care at Trilogy Care, who says that understanding the system is an important first step.
“Assuming you’ve been assessed as eligible for a Home Care Package, you’ll have been allocated a funding level, which will outline the services you can receive. At that point, you’re on the waitlist for a package. Once one becomes available, it’s all systems go.”
But, Sian says, it’s best to have your ducks lined up well in advance of funding being released. That means establishing how you want to manage your package and who you want to provide your services.
“To actually access that funding, you have to sign on with a registered provider who becomes responsible for all the reporting requirements. That means they’ll produce your monthly statement as well as reviewing your Home Care Agreement and care plan on an annual basis.
“Fundamentally, your provider is responsible for making sure you receive quality care and that your funds are managed properly.”
How do you choose a provider?
While you’re on the waitlist, Sian says, you need to work out how ‘hands-on’ you want to be with your care and services.
“HCP Providers can offer a fully-managed or self-managed service, and various degrees in between. Self-management, for example, allows you to manage specific aspects of your care – such as choosing the people who deliver it. This can allow you to maximise your hours of care and have absolute control over who is in your home and when.
“When we talk about ‘fully-managed’, that means your provider will take care of all the financial and administrative elements of your package, as well as choosing and booking your care services and carers from within their own workforce.”
The amount of provider involvement in the day-to-day management of your services may have implications for your budget as well as the flexibility and control you have over your care.
Home Care Package costs
“Every provider charges differently for the services they deliver and the rates that they apply to those services. It’s important to establish those costs up front,” Sian says.
“Providers are required to publish their full price list of all services and costs online. Given how much prices can vary, it’s worth comparing what’s on offer to ensure you’re getting the most out of your package funds. That means having a sense of the cost of the direct services you receive plus any package or care management costs.”
Depending on the outcome of an income and assets assessment, which will include things like savings, rental income, stocks and shares and any property, you may have to make an income tested contribution. If you’re a full pensioner or (as at Jan 2024) have an income of no more than $32,331.00, you will not have to pay an income tested care fee.
The fee itself is paid directly to your provider and is added to your Home Care Package. There is a cap on the maximum amount anyone can be asked to pay annually and over your lifetime. If you want to establish your fee obligations before committing to a Home Care Package, you can get a fee advice letter from Services Australia, which is valid for 120 days.
Start receiving services
“Once you’ve received your HCP, selected your provider and formally entered into your Home Care Agreement, your budget will be allocated across a care plan to ensure that you receive the services you need,” Sian says.
“Your Care Plan will look at things like medical conditions, personal care needs, allied health requirements and more, to identify the products and services that could be funded by your HCP to improve your quality of life and protect your independence.
“Always remember, you can choose how and where you spend your funds, so long as the services you receive are directly linked to your identified care needs and goals, will improve your health and wellbeing and are necessary for you to remain living safely and independently in your own home.”
For more information, download Understanding Care Options by Trilogy Care from the trilogycare website or contact their team for more information.
