I’m helping my parent set up their Home Care Package. What should we know about the Home Care Agreement and what’s included in it?
Setting up a Home Care Package for your parent is a significant step, and understanding the Home Care Agreement is essential to ensure they receive the care that best suits their needs. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this process.
What is a Home Care Agreement?
A Home Care Agreement is a contract between your parent (or their representative) and the provider. This agreement needs to be signed before services start and outlines everything about the care and services they will receive.
What’s Included in the Agreement?
- Your Care Plan:
- Developed with input from your parent, the care plan outlines their care needs, goals, and how these needs will be met.
- It considers any support from family, friends, or other carers.
- A final copy must be provided within 14 days of services starting.
- Your parent can request changes, and the provider cannot alter the care plan without permission.
- Your Services:
- Details the exact services to be provided (e.g., personal care, nursing, cleaning, gardening).
- Covers who provides the services, when, and how often.
- If a specific service is needed that the provider doesn’t offer, they may subcontract another organization to deliver it. Extra costs for subcontracted services must be clearly outlined before you agree.
- Your Fees:
- Lists the costs associated with the services, including:
- Basic daily fee (optional for some providers).
- Income-tested care fee (based on financial assessment by Services Australia).
- Additional fees (any other agreed-upon costs).
- Fees are broken down in the package budget.
- Lists the costs associated with the services, including:
- Care Management:
- Outlines the level of involvement your parent wants in managing their care.
- Care management fees are capped at 20% of the package level.
- Self-management options are available, allowing your parent to take an active role in their care planning.
- Package Management:
- Covers the administrative activities like managing budgets, coordinating services, and preparing invoices.
- Package management fees are capped at 15% of the package level.
- Package Budget:
- A detailed breakdown of total funds available for care needs, including government contributions and your parent’s contributions.
- Shows how funds will be spent each month.
- Unspent funds roll over and can be used for future needs.
- Monthly Statements:
- The provider must issue monthly statements showing contributions, spending, and unspent balances.
Your Parent’s Rights and Responsibilities
- Your parent has rights under the Charter of Aged Care Rights, which the provider must give them.
- These rights include being treated with respect, receiving safe and quality care, and having control over decisions related to their care.
- Your parent also has responsibilities, such as treating staff with respect and providing accurate information about their needs.
Getting Help to Understand the Agreement
- If there is anything unclear in the agreement, your parent can:
- Ask questions until they feel comfortable.
- Request the agreement in another language if needed.
- Seek independent legal advice.
- Involve an advocate (a family member, friend, or an organization like the Older Persons Advocacy Network - OPAN) to help explain and negotiate the terms.
Signing or Not Signing the Agreement
- If your parent is unable to sign the agreement, an authorized representative (e.g., someone with power of attorney) can sign on their behalf.
- If they choose not to sign, the provider must still discuss and document the agreed services and involvement in care management. Once services start, the agreement is considered in place.
Ending a Home Care Agreement
- The provider must continue services as long as they are needed (security of tenure).
- If your parent or provider decides to end the agreement, the provider must help find a suitable replacement service.
Final Thoughts
The Home Care Agreement is a tool to ensure your parent gets the personalized care they deserve. Take your time to review it carefully, ask questions, and involve advocates or legal advisors if necessary. This agreement provides the foundation for your parent’s ongoing comfort, independence, and well-being.
