How to Choose a Home Care Package Provider?

You've applied for a Home Care Package, and you're finally off the waiting list. Your next and final step is to choose a home care provider. 

This part of the application process might seem pretty straightforward, but it will be the most important decision you make. 

There are around 923 approved Home Care Package providers all over Australia. Finding the right one can be a challenge. 

You'll want a provider that will meet all your needs but won't make you exceed your budget. You'll want a provider that offers services near you but doesn't charge too much for Home Care Package fees.

There is no need to worry. We have made a list of all the steps you need to take to find the right provider. 

If you're wondering how to choose a Home Care Package provider, keep reading. 

Choosing the Best Home Care Package Provider 

Choosing the right Home Care Package provider is not easy, especially if you are new to this aged care program. 

With so many options out there, this decision can become overwhelming. 

The three most important factors to think about are:

1. The services the provider offers
2. The quality of care provided
3. The fees and other expenses 

After you have been granted home care funding, you need to shortlist the best providers in your area.

Of course, you can change your provider if you don't like them. But this is a complicated process, and it's best to make the right choice the first time around.

Services Offered

Once it's time to choose a Home Care Package provider, you must assess the range and quality of services offered.

Home Care Package providers offer similar core services. 

These include personal care, nursing care, help with household tasks, and so on. 

Take the time to examine these core services to see if they offer what you need. 

It's important to check the following:

• What do their service descriptions include? What types of services will you get for your money?
• Do their fees differ at different times of the day? What do they charge for the days and times you usually need their help?
• Do they provide the service themselves or subcontract to another company? 
• If you have any special needs, can they support them?
• If English isn't your first language, do they have other language or culture-appropriate options available?
• Are their schedules flexible? Can they adapt to your changing needs?

Quality of Care

Making sure you will receive high-quality service is very important. 

Every Home Care Package provider has to meet eight standards determined by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

These eight standards of care include:

1. Consumer dignity and choice
2. Ongoing assessment and planning
3. Personal care and clinical care
4. Services and support for daily living
5. Organisation's service environment
6. Feedback and complaints
7. Human resources
8. Organisational governance

If the provider doesn't meet these standards, they can receive a notice of non-compliance. In extreme cases, they can even get sanctions.

To make sure the provider offers high-quality services, you can read about their track record. 

Look for testimonials, reviews, or references from current or past clients. This will give you information about the provider's reputation. 

You can also contact the provider for any questions you may have. 

A reliable Home Care Package provider will be open for transparent communication.

Fees and Additional Expenses 

Before you go forward with your decision, it's important to check the provider's fees.

You can find an information booklet on fees for Home Care Packages on every provider's site. 

Every provider has to publish their full price list of services and costs.

Several factors determine how much you'll pay for your home care provider. 

These prices may differ, so look around to see what's available. They will vary from provider to provider, along with the services and level of care they offer.

Consider the following factors:

• The services you need and the services they offer
• Their care management
• Their package management costs
• Your budget

Care and package management can be included in your package.

Care management ensures you receive the coordinated care you need. Package management refers to the administration behind the care delivery.

Make sure the provider doesn't charge any hidden fees. 

These can be cancellation or exit fees. But, as of January 2023, home care providers aren't allowed to charge exit fees anymore.

Some providers may charge higher rates for services provided during weekends, holidays, or outside standard business hours. Be sure to clarify the pricing structure for these times.

Your Home Care Package funding will be allocated to your home care provider. So, you will be able to use those funds for services you need daily. 

Self-Managed vs. Provider-Managed Home Care Packages

When considering home care providers, you have to make an important decision. 

Should you opt for a self-managed arrangement or rely on a provider-managed service?

Each approach comes with its own set of advantages and considerations.

A self-managed Home Care Package gives you more control. You have a greater say in how your care services are arranged and delivered. 

Instead of a care provider handling everything, you can decide who will provide your care.

Self-managed packages come with the following benefits:

1. Autonomy and control
2. Flexibility 
3. Personalisation
4. Financial transparency
5. Choice of support workers

In a provider-managed arrangement, the care provider takes care of everything. 

They're in charge of organising and delivering services on behalf of the individual.

In this setup, the care provider handles various tasks. For example, hiring and managing support workers and coordinating service schedules. 

They also make sure that the necessary care meets quality and compliance standards.

Advantages of provider-managed care include:

1. Administrative convenience
2. Reduced administrative burden
3. Access to provider resources
4. Help with compliance
5. Backup support

Why Haisey Home Care Should Be Your First Choice

At Haisey Home Care, we stand apart as more than just a home care provider. 

We are your dedicated allies in fostering a life of dignity, independence, and joy for your loved ones. 

Here's why choosing Haisey is choosing unparalleled care:

• Tailored compassion
• Expert case management
• Experience with medication management 
• Extensive dementia care
• Seamless transitions
• Family-centric communication
• Holistic social integration
• Low, competitive fees

Our care isn't one-size-fits-all. 

We tailor our services with a personal touch. Every aspect of care aligns seamlessly with the unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle of your loved one.

Our approach is marked by compassion and understanding. Our services include personalised support for both individuals and their families.

We keep you informed regularly. We strive to provide updates and information and foster trust.

Haisey Home Care offers low, competitive fees. We offer a low, flat rate, and we don't charge a basic daily fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a wait time for the services?

It depends on both what services you need and your location.

The wait time for approved packages can be 3 to 12 months, sometimes even more. They are prioritised according to the urgency of the participant's needs.

What do I need to set my services up?

There are three things you will be asked to provide, including:

1. Your referral code (showing which service the assessor has recommended for you)
2. Your pre-commencement letter (showing how much you will pay towards the costs)
3. Your care plan (showing all the actions recommended by your assessor)

Can I change my provider?

Yes, if you don't like your current provider and want to switch to Haisey Home Care, you can.

This process can take a few months, so you need to be patient. Haisey Home Care ensures a seamless and stress-free transition.

If you have any unspent funds from your previous provider, they will be transferred to your new one.

Choose the Best Home Care Package Provider

Choosing a home care provider takes time and patience. You must make sure to choose a provider that meets all your needs. 

Haisey Home Care is here to make the entire process easier.

Our goal is to provide you with the best care possible, letting you live your life to the fullest. 

If you have any other questions about Home Care Packages or our services and charges, please get in touch, and we'll be happy to assist.

{{cta}}