The ‘Home Care Today’ project ran from 2013 to June 2017. COTA Australia continues to provide access to Home Care Today resources which were current at June 2017. However they are no longer monitored or updated, and information may not be current.
Thinking about value for money can be helpful if you are choosing or changing provider or considering buying other services.
Direct services, goods and equipment
It can be worth comparing your provider’s charges for services, goods and equipment to what you could buy privately.
For example, some people use their package funds for allied health services, but find better value for other services, like garden maintenance and cleaning, in the private market.
Administration and case management fees
Administration and case management fees vary between providers. Although the government caps the Income-Tested Care Fee, it doesn’t control other provider fees.
You can ask other providers for a list of their fees and compare these with what your provider charges. Be aware that some providers charge a higher ‘unit cost’, which is all-inclusive, whereas others have a lower unit cost but add administration and case management fees on top.
Weighing up home care vs residential aged care
Home care services allow you to stay at home for longer. Investing in home care services may save you money in the long term by helping you avoid residential aged care, which can be expensive.
Independent financial advice
If you’re concerned about finances, the government’s Financial Information Service can give you free, confidential and independent financial advice. Call 132 300 and when prompted, say ‘Financial Information Service’.
VIEW our page: Managing your Home Care Package
