Navigating the ins and outs of the Government’s aged care support landscape to find the elusive Home Care Package can seem overwhelming. We sat down with The Village Home Care Services provider, Ulendo Roode, to find out more about the process and learn why getting an ACAT assessment is an integral step to receiving the in-home support you may need.
What is an ACAT assessment?
ACAT stands for Aged Care Assessment Team. This is the assessment completed by a My Aged Care representative to establish the needs for Commonwealth Government funded in-home services and support.
Why is it important to get an ACAT assessment?
An ACAT assessment is required to obtain approval for a Home Care Package (HCP) before the appropriate level of funding can be allocated.
So, how do I get ACAT assessed?
To qualify, residents need to be over 65 years of age (55 years for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders) and wanting to live independently in their own homes/units for as long as possible. Start by registering your interest with My Aged Care (MAC) and obtaining an AC (aged care) number. MAC will ask several screening questions to ascertain your eligibility and needs. It is important to request a Home Care Package, which is more customisable and comprehensive than the basic/entry level Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). For this, residents will have to demonstrate a higher level of needs i.e., mobility, cognition, medication, past medical history, need for transportation, meal preparation etc. to maintain a good quality of living and to manage their activities of daily living in a safe manner.
Why is the full package so beneficial?
The journey past an ACAT assessment will reward you with the full package – you can choose your provider and services to match your changing needs. Securing a HCP is an important safeguard to enjoy the Village life you love.
What can I do to best prepare?
Meet with one of our Care Coordinators to explain the process in more detail and help you prepare a list of needs and risks, to be used as part of your ACAT assessment, which is conducted by a MAC appointed nurse. Our coordinators can also advise on options to pay for services privately until your HCP is approved, if required.
Want to learn more?
Contact The Village Home Care Services on (07) 3854 3747, or head to www.myagedcare.gov.au for more information.
