Finding the right NDIS provider can be a daunting experience, especially with so many providers offering different services. But, with a little advice, you can certainly find the perfect provider for your or your loved one’s needs.
Let’s take a look at three awesome tips for finding the right provider below:
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1. What services are they offering?
The first – and most important thing in finding the best NDIS Wollongong – is to understand the provider and what services they are offering. You want to ensure the provider aligns with your goals, so you should look for one that meets your current requirements and can assist in achieving future objectives.
For example, you might be looking for someone to help maintain the home, in which case you will be looking for a direct support worker. What’s more, you might need the provider to assist in getting the groceries, in which case a provider who can also offer transport services is an added bonus.
Finally, you must ensure that the prospective provider meets your NDIS budget, something you can inquire about with your service provider.
2. Are they experienced & qualified?
Next, it’s time to look into the provider’s qualifications and experience. This will show you if they provide a high quality service and can meet your or your loved one’s requirements.
When it comes to experience, it comes down to subjective opinion, as you might prioritise finding a provider that has similar interests, or you might want to go with someone who has specific experience when it comes to helping participants engage in the community.
Independent support workers don’t require specific qualifications, but need the following to be able to provide the service:
- NDIS worker screening check
- Police check
- Insurance
- A current first aid certificate
If you are plan-managed or self-managed then the provider doesn’t necessarily need these checks but they are definitely recommended, and they should already have these checks if a larger organisation employs them to provide such services.
They must be qualified if they are an Allied health provider, as they need the required knowledge and skill set to assist their participants with daily tasks as well as reaching their overall objectives. As such, every provider requires an ABN, and you can choose between registered or unregistered provider if you are plan-managed or self-managed.
The difference between unregistered and registered services is that registered providers have applied for their registration and align with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards commission standards.
3. Does the service allow you flexibility or full control?
Finally, it’s important to know that the service contains the flexibility you may require in the future. It is inevitable that there might be cancelled or new shift requests, so it’s important to know what you can do in the event of this happening.
If you have received a service agreement from the provider, it should contain a cancellation policy you can read through to ensure it meets your standards. You should still be able to ask about their cancellation policy even if you don’t have a service agreement with them.
Certain National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) providers will offer more specific options when it comes to who will be offering the actual service, with options regarding the carer’s age, gender or religion – if this is important to you then it is definitely something that should be considered when choosing your service provider.
By following these three important tips, you should be able to find the ideal service provider for you or your loved one!