Navigating the AT-HM Scheme: Three Ways to Access Funding

For older people transitioning from a Home Care Package (HCP) to the Support at Home program, the introduction of a dedicated Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) scheme is a welcome change. This scheme is designed to help participants meet their assessed needs for equipment and home changes that promote independence and safety. There are three clear pathways through which participants can access this funding, each offering a different approach to suit various circumstances.

The first pathway is by utilising unspent funds from your existing HCP. This option provides a straightforward way to purchase equipment and home modifications from the AT-HM list. A key benefit is that these purchases are not subject to the $15,000 cap that may apply to other home modifications. To use this method, you must document and justify the need and reasoning for the purchase and retain all evidence to support your claim. This ensures that the expenditure is appropriate and directly linked to your assessed needs. This is an excellent option for those with available funds and a clear, immediate need for AT-HM items.

The second pathway is through a proposed survey that will be released prior to the start of the Support at Home program. This survey will be a proactive tool designed to help providers identify participants' AT-HM needs, which will then be used to indicate the appropriate AT-HM funding tiers. This process will streamline the allocation of funds, ensuring that a person's needs are identified and addressed early on in the transition process. It provides a structured and efficient way for the new scheme to be introduced and for needs to be captured systematically across the board.

Finally, the third option is for participants to seek a re-assessment of their support plan. This is particularly useful for those whose needs have changed or for those who were not captured in the initial survey. A re-assessment will specifically consider if the participant is approved for AT-HM scheme funding, providing a formal and in-depth review of their requirements. This pathway guarantees that everyone has the opportunity to have their current needs evaluated and to receive the appropriate support under the new program.

Call Debra on 1300 664 130 to discuss your Home Care Onboarding requirements as we have specific software to improve your onboarding efficiency and give your care managers more time to spend with the care recipient.