Finding the best disability care provider can feel overwhelming. With so much choice, it can be hard to know where to start. However, taking your time to research providers is important. Having the right support will empower you live a full and independent life.
Research
Take time to research a range of local disability providers. Not all providers offer the same support and services, so it’s important to ensure that they can meet your needs and help you achieve your goals, whether that’s disability homecare, therapeutic supports or getting out in the community.
Call and talk to providers about any queries you have and check if they’re a registered NDIS provider. You can also check registrations on the Provider Finder.
A service provider who has a thorough knowledge about NDIS is vital as they can advise you on your entitlements, prepare you for NDIS meetings and guide you on how to get the best out of the service.
Recommendations
Where possible, seek out recommendations from friends and family, or others who are receiving disability support. Look up service providers and check out their reviews or call them and ask if they have any testimonials you could read.
The key is to look for service providers who treat people as individuals and provide holistic care.
Transparent service agreements
A service agreement is a document that outlines how the service provider will support you and help you to navigate the NDIS. The easier it is to understand, the better. Look for a service provider with a clear agreement that details the support they provide, the cost incurred, payment methods and any other terms and conditions.
Offers a sense of independence
One of the main goals of a disability support worker is to help you live a full and independent life. The ideal support worker will empower you to make decisions and help build your sense of freedom.
Be confident that your provider promotes a culture of mutual respect and that their support workers listen to participants’ wants, needs and opinions.
Attitude
First impressions count. When you contact a service provider or meet with them, be aware of how they interact with you. Do they come across as professional and caring? Are they respectful of you and your needs? Are they going to support you to make independent decisions?
Feeling comfortable with the service provider on your first contact, will provide you with peace of mind that you’ve made the right choice.
Find the perfect match
When you engage the services of a disability provider, you’ll regularly spend time with a dedicated support worker. To ensure that the support worker can effectively assist with your personal needs they need to have the relevant skills and experience.
It’s also important that your service provider matches you with a support worker with shared interests – whether it’s sport, reading or simply getting out in the community.
Having shared interests can help you solidify a relationship which is beneficial for your confidence, decision making and overall wellbeing.
Want to know more about our services and how we can help support you? Contact us today. We’d love to chat.
Author – Unidex Healthcare
