If you’re already on this journey you know that the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to help all Australians living with a significant and permanent disability. The scheme aims to invest in individuals now to improve future health outcomes so that they can lead fulfilling and productive lives. At Care Squared we understand that approaching the NDIS can feel overwhelming at first. They’re a big organization with many departments and terminology that can be difficult to understand. It can feel daunting. Especially when you know that they provide funding and access to essential services that you or a loved one need. Even navigating the NDIS price guide can feel confusing.
To help point you in the right direction our Care Squared team have put together a few tips to help kick start your NDIS journey. It’s worth remembering that there’s lots of help out there, and plenty of people who have been through this process before. It’s a good idea to ask for help at any and every stage. You don’t need to go through this process alone.
Know if you’re eligible
You need to be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident, be under 65 years of age and have a permanent disability that effects your ability to take part in everyday activities.
NDIS Representative
You’ll be assigned an NDIS Representative automatically. Their job is to support you, to help with registration and your journey. Make a list and ask them questions, they’ve been through this process many times before and can give advice that will help you make the best decisions for you or a loved one.
Develop a plan
Once registered in the scheme, the NDIS will work with you to develop a plan. The NDIS plan outlines your aspirations, goals, and support, including a breakdown of funding you might need. Every plan is unique and tailored to the individual and is normally updated every 12 months. Be realistic and optimistic about what you might like to achieve. The plan isn’t set in stone, it can and should change as you will.
Two is better than one
Don’t go to your initial meetings alone. Take someone with you, maybe a family member or a neighbour. It helps to have someone to attend meetings with you for moral support and to ask any questions you may forget.
Goals
Be clear about your goals. Your NDIS representative will work with you to define your goals but it also helps if you have an idea of what you’d like to achieve, or get out of your plan in advance. Remember, this is your plan. How do you want your life to look? How can your NDIS plan help you achieve independence? Create short-and-long term goals and be as specific as you can.
Get support
Organisations like Care Squared provide a full range of accredited allied health services. The team includes Occupational Therapists, Psychologists, Speech Pathologists, Physiotherapists and more, all trained to help you reach your NDIS goals. We can work within your NDIS budget and provide a tailored health program specific to you. Our team are committed to improving and managing your physical and mental health with care so that you can lead a fulfilling life.
Understand your entitlements
Know what your options are and what support you’re entitled to. Talk to as many people and organisations who understand the process as you can. You don’t want to miss out on anything that might help you reach your goals.
Choosing Allied Health Services
There’s a lot to consider when choosing which allied health services are best suited to your needs. Professional organisations like Care Squared can help you navigate your NDIS plan and direct you to a range of registered allied health professionals to improve your physical and mental health including, Occupational Therapists, Psychologists, Speech Pathologists, Physiotherapists and more.
Changing plans
Your goals and plans might change. That’s life. Down the line, it helps to be ready to review your plan yourself and approach NDIS with your revised expectations and goals.
And remember that you don’t need to navigate the NDIS on your own. There are lots of representatives, organisations and communities that are readily available to help. This is a system that is designed to work for you.
To find out how CareSquared can help you achieve your NDIS goals and be the best version of you contact our friendly Care Squad on 1300 632 639, or info@caresquared.com.au.