Getting started with
a Home Care Package
We know that navigating the path to getting extra care and support can feel challenging. To make things easier, we’ve outlined six simple steps to help you get started with accessing home care services. Our team is here to assist you at any stage along the way.
Step 2
Register with My Aged Care
Contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or via their website myagedcare.gov.au.
My Aged Care will complete an application to check your eligibility for an assessment, this application can be completed in three ways.
- An online application will take around 15 to 20 minutes and you will need your Medicare Card handy to complete the process.
- If you would prefer to speak with someone or do not have a Medicare Card the same application process can be completed over the phone.
- If you would prefer to apply in person you can make an appointment at a Services Australia location with an Aged Care Specialist Officer. To make an appointment please call 1800 227 475.
Get assistance from our friendly staff
If you have any questions about how to do this, please call us on 1300 478 776 and a friendly Mercy Health staff member would be happy to assist.
Get assistance from our friendly staff
If you have any questions about how to do this, please call us on 1300 478 776 and a friendly Mercy Health staff member would be happy to assist.
Step 3
Eligibility assessment
Once you have registered with My Aged Care, the team will refer you to a single assessment team.
Someone from the single assessment team will contact you to arrange a time to complete an assessment. The assessment will identify your care needs to determine if you are eligible to receive government support which could include a Home Care Package.
Connect with a dedicated care advisor
Through its Care Advisory Service, Mercy Health can connect you with a dedicated care advisor who can assist you in understanding the assessment process and preparing for your assessment.
Connect with a dedicated care advisor
Through its Care Advisory Service, Mercy Health can connect you with a dedicated care advisor who can assist you in understanding the assessment process and preparing for your assessment.
Step 4
Your assessment results
After the assessment, you will receive a letter from the single assessment team to inform you of your eligibility and potential Home Care Package approval. You will be notified of the package level (the amount of support you will receive).
Your approval letter:
- This letter confirms that you have met the eligibility requirements to receive a Home Care Package.
- The letter will list the type of care you are eligible for and the level.
- You can expect your letter to state, ‘You are approved as eligible to receive the care types listed below.’ or something similar.
If your Home Care Package is subsequently approved, you will be placed in the national queue to start receiving your services. You will then receive a letter from My Aged Care when a Home Care Package has been assigned to you. The letter will include a referral code for your Home Care Package.
- This letter confirms that you will receive government funding for a Home Care Package and the level.
- You can expect your letter to state, ‘You have been assigned a level three home care package. To support your next steps of finding an approved provider and entering into an agreement: A unique referral code has been assigned to you.’ or something similar.
Get help to understand your letter
These letters can be confusing. If you are unsure about a letter you have received, please give our friendly team a call on 1300 478 776 and someone will be happy to explain everything.
Step 5
How to find the home care provider that is right for you
While waiting for your package, call the Mercy Health Customer Enquiry Centre on 1300 478 776 to start a conversation about how our services can fit your individual needs.
Important things to consider when choosing a home care provider:
Get started now
You’ve gathered all the crucial information and have chosen the best provider for your needs. Now, it’s time to take the next step towards exceptional care. Contact us today to commence your Home Care Package and experience the support and services you deserve.
Get started now
You’ve gathered all the crucial information and have chosen the best provider for your needs. Now, it’s time to take the next step towards exceptional care. Contact us today to commence your Home Care Package and experience the support and services you deserve.
Step 6
Activating your package
When a Home Care Package is assigned to you, we advise that you contact us as soon as possible with your referral code to commence your Home Care Package.
A member of our team will set up an appointment time with you for a care advisor to visit you in your home to discuss all the relevant details for your services and assist you to understand and sign a Home Care Package agreement. The care advisor will talk through specifics step by step and will ensure you understand and are comfortable with each aspect of your package and services.
Need more help?
Contact us at any time for assistance with the Home Care Package application process or to discuss your care options.
Need more help?
Contact us at any time for assistance with the Home Care Package application process or to discuss your care options.