How to Get More Funding Under Your Home Care Package Plan

For those receiving a Home Care Package (HCP), it’s essential to ensure that the level of funding and support provided meets your needs as they change over time. Whether you’re experiencing a decline in health, need more assistance with daily activities, or require additional services to maintain your independence, knowing how to access more funding can make a significant difference.

This guide will explain the steps to take when you feel that your current Home Care Package is no longer sufficient and how to advocate for an increase in your funding.

Understanding Home Care Package Levels

Home Care Packages are divided into four levels, each providing a different amount of funding to support various care needs:

• Level 1: Basic care needs
• Level 2: Low-level care needs
• Level 3: Intermediate care needs
• Level 4: High-level care needs

As your circumstances change, you may find that your current package no longer provides enough funding to cover the services you need. If this is the case, you can request a reassessment to potentially move to a higher level of care, which will provide more funding and access to additional services.

Steps to Increase Your Home Care Package Funding

1. Assess Your Current Needs Begin by evaluating your current care needs. Are you receiving enough support for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and mobility? Have your health conditions changed, requiring more frequent or specialized care? Document any changes in your health or daily living requirements to present a clear case for why increased funding is necessary.
2. Contact Your Service Provider Speak with your current Home Care Package provider to discuss your concerns and the need for additional support. They can help you understand what services you are currently receiving, and how they can be adjusted within your existing package. If your needs exceed what your current package level can offer, your provider will guide you through the next steps.
3. Request a Reassessment from My Aged Care To access more funding, you will need to undergo a reassessment of your care needs through My Aged Care. You can request a reassessment by calling the My Aged Care contact centre or through your service provider. During this reassessment, an assessor will evaluate your current situation, considering any recent changes in your health or living conditions.
4. Prepare for the Reassessment It’s important to be well-prepared for your reassessment. Provide the assessor with detailed information about your health, any new diagnoses, and how your daily activities have been impacted. Include input from your healthcare professionals, such as your doctor or physiotherapist, to support your case. The more comprehensive your documentation, the better your chances of receiving an increase in funding.
5. Understand the Priority System When applying for a higher-level package, be aware that there may be a waiting period. The government prioritizes cases based on urgency, so those with the greatest need for support are placed at the top of the list. While waiting for a higher-level package, you may be offered an interim lower-level package to provide some support in the meantime.
6. Explore Additional Funding Options If there is a delay in receiving a higher-level package or if your needs are not fully met by the new level, consider other funding options. These can include:
   • Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP): Offers entry-level support services to help with daily tasks.
   • Private Care Services: You can supplement your Home Care Package with privately funded services for additional support.
   • Carer Support Payments: If you have a family member or friend who is your primary carer, they may be eligible for financial support.
7. Review and Adjust Your Care Plan Regularly As your needs evolve, it’s important to review your care plan regularly. Work closely with your service provider to ensure that your current package level and funding are aligned with your needs. Regular reviews will help you stay proactive and ensure you are always receiving the appropriate level of care.
8. Advocate for Your Rights If you feel that your request for increased funding is not being adequately addressed, you have the right to appeal the decision or seek support from advocacy services. Organizations like the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) can provide guidance and support in navigating the appeals process.

Tips for a Successful Reassessment

• Be Thorough: Provide comprehensive information about your daily needs and how your current package is insufficient.
• Get Professional Support: Include letters or reports from healthcare professionals to support your case.
• Stay Informed: Understand your rights and the criteria used to determine eligibility for higher-level packages.

Empowering Yourself with the Right Resources

Navigating the Home Care Package system can be complex but being informed and proactive is key to getting the support you need. By understanding your options and advocating for your care, you can ensure that your Home Care Package evolves with you, providing the necessary services to maintain your independence and well-being.

Here at Health Next Door, we may be able to assist you with advice on getting more funding under your HCP Plan. Please contact us to discuss your current situation.