Advice on Self-Managed Care

What is Self-Managed Care about?

Self-managed care gives you full control of your Home Care Package. You are able to:

• Choose your own support workers
• Schedule services on your own
• Manage your budget yourself

Unlike provider-managed care, where most decisions are made for you, self-managed care offers complete freedom to make decisions that best suit your needs.

However, under self-managed care, you still need a Home Care Provider to handle the government funding arrangements.

The Home Care Provider will receive and hold on to your funds until you make use of them – to obtain approved care services and supports. You also need the Home Care Provider to ensure the care you are receiving and your spending comply with your Home Care Package, and also track your spending.

Note that anyone with a Home Care Package can choose to self manage their package or request for a care provider. This care provider can be a relative, friend, or any other form of assistance.

If you'd like to speak with an expert about self-management or if you're ready to hire a support service provider to handle your care package, get in touch with Support Network today and let's get you started.

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Benefits of Self-Managed Care

• You have more control over your care and spending. You decide who to hire as care providers, schedule and book your care providers, and pay for the services you receive independently.
• You pay a lesser fee to your Home Care provider compared to the provider-managed option.

Disadvantages of Self-Managed Care

You handle your scheduling. Unlike the provider-managed care, you don't enjoy the luxury of having a team to assign carers for you. If your self-assigned carer becomes unavailable, you will be solely responsible for finding a replacement.

• Without expert guidance, you may struggle to access essential care services and face difficulty navigating processes.
• You may also risk overspending or mismanaging your home care packages.

When Should You Consider a Self-Managed Option?

If you are independent and have simple needs, a Self-Managed care option could be a good fit. You have full control over your care while also reducing provider fees.

However, you must be readily prepared to handle unexpected challenges. You should note that you may not have immediate access to a care provider if your health suddenly changes and finding a replacement will completely be on you if your care-giveris unavailable.

However, if your needs are low and you don't mind all these likely drawbacks, self-managed care could be okay for you.

When Should You Consider a Provider-Managed Option?

If you have complex needs – Provider-managed care is perfect for those in need of more than just basic assistance. It ensures that you receive a comprehensive level of care tailored to your needs.

• If you want a coordinated care team at your service – Your home care-giver will work directly with professionals. You will have access to a network of professional home care givers, leaving you rest assured that you only have experienced and reliable caregivers at your service.
• If you value convenience, reduced stress and peace of mind – Provider-managed care comes with slightly higher fees, the reduced workload and added security on you however can make it worthwhile as you enjoy quality care with almost all your tasks handled for you.

Need Help With Your Home Care Package?

At Support Network, we make managing your Home Care Package simple and stress-free. Whether you are self-managing or need extra support, we help you get the most out of your package while you enjoy full control and flexibility.

Our staff are well trained, friendly and professional, and dedicated to providing flexible, high-quality care solutions.

Contact us today at 1300 671 931 and let’s help you create a care plan that truly works for you and derive the best of your Home Care Package.