Health Care Packages (HCPs) are currently held in a national pool. Once approved for a package, individuals are placed in a queue based on priority, personal needs, and length of time waiting for care. Support is allocated once individuals reach the front of the queue.
Due to the high demand for HCPs, there may be a delay before individuals can access the benefits of their package. Individuals with a medium priority status can anticipate a waiting period for an approved Home Care Package, beginning from the date indicated on the approval letter. The expected wait time is as follows:
- Level 1:Less than 1 month
- Level 2: 3-6 months
- Level 3: 9-12 months
- Level 4: 9-12 months
In the meantime, there are several options to consider for accessing care while waiting for a package to become available.
Option 1: Take advantage of the Commonwealth Home Support Program
You can consult with your assessor to explore the possibility of accessing assistance through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) to receive temporary services while waiting for your Home Care Package (HCP).
Securing access to CHSP is a faster process compared to obtaining a HCP. Your assessor will assess whether this option is suitable for you, as CHSP offers basic home care services. While you will be required to contribute towards some of the services, the Government will subsidize most of the assistance you receive.
CHSP offers a range of low-level services including garden and home maintenance, house cleaning, meal preparation, basic personal care, nursing services, and more.
Option 2: Interim package
While waiting for your assessed Home Care Package (HCP) level, you may have the opportunity to access support through a lower-level HCP known as an interim package. This allows you to receive services sooner rather than waiting for your approved package to become available.
Interim packages are specifically for individuals who require a Level 2, 3, or 4 HCP package. However, it is important to note that there may be a wait time of a few months for an interim package to be allocated.
During your assessment with an ACAT/S assessor, the option of interim packages should be discussed with you. The benefit of accepting an interim package is that you will not lose your place on the waiting list for your approved HCP package level.
By considering an interim package, you can access the support you need while waiting for your designated HCP level to become available.
Option 3: Private home care services
While waiting for your Home Care Package (HCP) or interim package, you have the option to pay for services through non-government-funded providers. These private home care services operate independently from Federal Government regulations and funding.
Although private providers offer the same quality of care, they are not subsidized by the Government, requiring you to cover the costs yourself. Consider your financial situation and immediate needs when deciding if private home care is feasible for you.
Private home care offers the advantage of immediate assistance without the need for assessments or waiting lists. Even after receiving your HCP, you can continue using private home care services as a supplement for any ineligible services.
Options 4: Consult your doctor
Your doctor is the best person to consult regarding your health concerns and treatment options. While waiting for a Healthcare Provider (HCP), your General Practitioner (GP) may offer services to assist you.
The Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program is designed for older Australians dealing with complex care or chronic conditions. This program provides five fully covered sessions with allied health professionals to address a variety of health issues such as asthma, stroke, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal conditions, and more. There is no specific list of conditions you must meet to qualify for this program, but you must have had the condition for at least six months.
The CDM program is intended for patients who require a structured care approach to manage or recover from their illness. Your doctor will work with other healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, dietitians, audiologists, podiatrists, psychologists, and other specialists, to coordinate your care.
To access allied health assistance through the CDM program, you must be recommended by your doctor. It is important to note that not all providers may accept this program, so be sure to confirm that the allied health provider you choose fully covers this service.
Options 5: Ask help from your family or friends
Your family and friends may already be providing informal care to assist you at home. It is important to have a conversation with them to determine if they can continue to support you until you have access to your Home Care Package, or if there are additional tasks that you may need assistance with. Engaging in open communication with your loved ones will help ensure that you receive the necessary care and support during this time.
Option 6: If you are in urgent need for services
In the event of a sudden decline in health requiring immediate assistance from a Home Care Package, your position on the waiting list may be expedited to the top. While progression on the list is guaranteed from the approval date, individuals with more pressing needs for a HCP to maintain their safety and receive necessary care are prioritized.
If your health deteriorates or circumstances change, requesting a reassessment can accelerate the process of obtaining a Home Care Package.
Option 7: What if I have arrangements for care in place now?
If you have arranged temporary care and are unable to cancel it upon learning that your package is available, there is no need to worry. You have the option to temporarily pause your access to your package.
To remove this pause, simply inform My Aged Care that you are ready to accept your package. By doing so, you will not lose your place on the waiting list, and your position will still be determined by the date you were approved for a Home Care Package (HCP).