CLIENT DIRECTED CARE? WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONES?
With the new changes now in effect this is a good time to evaluate where your current CDC (Client Directed Care) package is held & how satisfied you are with your current provider.
If you are happy with your existing provider then that's good news for you.
However it's worth noting that from February 2017 you can move your CDC Home Care package from your existing provider should you be unsatisfied with your current arrangement/staff etc.
You also may be eligible for additional hours once your package is reviewed by one of our team members.
In regards to CDC, a great place to start is by visiting the government 'MY AGED CARE' website for all types of valuable general information.
If you follow the link below you can start by reviewing approved providers in your area.
MY AGED CARE CASE STUDY: COMPILATION
Watch this video as it explains some of the services you can expect to be provided under your Home Care Package from a real client's point of view. It's easy to watch, but you will need of course to ensure your sound is turned on!
NEWLY APPROVED PROVIDER STATUS FOR ACA
Advanced Care Australia is now an approved Home Care Package provider, & can now proudly offer service areas including the Sunshine Coast , Noosa & surrounds down to North Brisbane, Redcliffe, Bribie Island areas. We are pleased to also advise that we have a new partnership with a local Sydney team who can service the Sydney area along with the central coast of NSW.
A WORD FROM THE MANAGING DIRECTOR
During my years of experience in providing home care in the community, I have heard a lot of stories from clients and members of the community about their experiences with home care providers - and the tales have been both good and bad.
What I've learnt from this, and from sourcing home support for my own parents - is that there are many common denominators in what constitutes a good provider - the majority of clients all had the same concerns and complaints.
One of my greatest teachers was my mother - when she was having care at home it was her personal experience and willingness to share details of her day to day challenges that opened my eyes to what REALLY matters to those who need support at home.
Now I will acknowledge that not everyone who requires care at home has a choice (yet) of which provider will support them. However with the introduction of the consumer directed care (CDC) & the rollout of the NDIS- this is changing, and people will have much more choice about who provides their support - and rightly so.
For those of you who already have the choice - and for those of you who soon will have - here's some tips on what to look for and what questions to ask when considering who will provide your support.
1. QUALITY CERTIFICATION
This is a process where the agency is audited by an independent, professional body to ensure the way they conduct business, and how support provided is maintained at a high standard and meets set requirements.
This certification is YOUR safety net - it ensures that if you do have an issue or concern, there are steps you can take to have it investigated and rectified. Of course any organisation approved under the Department of Health must have these certifications. So beware: if you self manage, and or are planning on hiring your own contractors.
2. STAFFING
- Can you have a small, consistent team of staff?
- If your regular staff are sick or on leave, can the provider send a replacement?
- What training, qualifications and screening do the staff undergo?
You want to be confident that the staff you are allowing into your home have been thoroughly screened, and have the skills to undertake the support you need. What involvement do you have in planning your supports?
3. ACCESSIBILITY OF MANAGEMENT
Are they located interstate - if so communication can be difficult. Are they available outside of hours? How do they manage complaints? Do you speak to the same person regularly for your needs or is there a high turnover of staff?
This really impacts your satisfaction with your service. As you may know ACA are based right here on the beautiful Sunshine Coast and always prioritise our customer service and accessibility.
4. FLEXIBILITY AND RESPONSIVENESS
- Can you change the time of your shift at short notice?
- How much notice do they need for you to cancel a shift?
- Can you have a worker replaced that you aren't comfortable with?
- How quickly do they investigate and resolve any concerns?
- How easy is it to make changes - are they readily available to discuss issues?
5. DO YOU HAVE A WRITTEN AGREEMENT OUTLINING YOUR RIGHTS
- Do you know what rights you have as a client?
- Do you know your responsibilities - what you need to do to play your part in enabling the provider to support you?
These should be provided and explained to you when you commence services.
That's just some basic tips on what to look for, but in all my experience while the above are all important it is the little things that really count. Most people really just want good, consistent basics from their provider - in particular - to have a small team that they are comfortable with, who do their job in a respectful and friendly manner, provide the support at a time that suits them and the management team is readily accessible if there is a problem.
It's the little things that can make a big difference.
Ready to choose your provider?
Grab our free downloadable checklist of the above items: