Everyone receiving Support at Home services has care management. A staff member called a care partner works with you to plan, understand and review your support so it continues to suit your needs, preferences and goals.
What does a care partner do?
Your care partner helps turn your assessment and support plan into practical services. They can help you understand your budget, organise services, coordinate workers and other health professionals, and make sure everyone involved in your care has the information they need.
They also check how your services are going, discuss risks or concerns, and help adjust your care when your health, home situation or goals change. They can include your registered supporter, family member or carer in discussions when you want them involved.
You should hear from your care partner regularly
Your provider must carry out care management when services begin and continue it while you receive care. For ongoing Support at Home services, you should have at least one direct care management contact each month. This may be a meeting, phone call or another suitable form of communication.
How care management is funded
For ongoing Support at Home services, 10% of each participant’s quarterly government funding is allocated to pooled care management. This is used by the provider to support participants according to their individual needs. Care management also continues if you choose to self-manage part of your services.
Make the most of your reviews
Tell your care partner what is working, what is difficult and what you would like to achieve. Ask for clear explanations of your budget and services. If your needs are no longer being met, your care partner can help review the plan and discuss whether a reassessment or different support may be appropriate.
Read the Australian Government guidance on care management for Support at Home.