If you're a consumer eligible for help through an NDIS plan, it can be hard to know where to start when managing your plan. What do you need to know about this program, and where should you start?
What Is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a nationwide insurance scheme designed to support Australians with disabilities and their families. It provides funding for support and services that people with disabilities need to live more independent lives. The NDIS aims to give people with disabilities more control over their lives and maintain a degree of independence if possible so that they can participate in the community and reach their full potential.
Three Options
There are three different ways to manage your NDIS funds.
- You can engage the services of a planned manager (also called a plan partner), who will take care of all the admin and have someone to talk to if you have any questions.
- You could put the National Disability Insurance Agency in charge of the matter, but this would typically come with less in the way of support.
- Your other option is to self-manage your funds which will give you the most flexibility, but this comes with a lot of responsibilities. You need to ensure that you run your plan just like a small business in many ways. You'll have to pay providers and keep all your invoices and receipts in place for accounting purposes.
How Can You Manage Your Plan?
If you have received an approved NDIS plan, there are several key steps you can take to ensure that you are managing it effectively. First, it's important that you understand exactly what your plan covers and what isn't included. You should also clearly understand which support and services are available through the NDIS, as well as any restrictions or limitations on these services. It's important to research the providers offering the services to help you choose the right provider for your needs.
Working With an Experienced Provider
Many consumers will choose to work with experienced providers who are registered with the scheme and understand how the system works. Working with experienced providers ensures that all paperwork related to claiming costs from the scheme is completed correctly, so there are no delays in getting access to necessary support. Furthermore, experienced providers can provide valuable advice on managing an NDIS plan and maximising its benefits for individual customers based on their specific circumstances.
Taking the Next Step
For more information about this, contact a local company like KaizenCare.
