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What does assessment mean?
Some people shy away from the idea of an assessment, but you’ll find that there’s nothing to fear. It’s just a process you need to go through to help work out your needs and find out about the services that may be able to help. For some government programs, such as the Home and Community Care program (more information) and the National Respite for Carers Program (more information), the service provider will conduct the assessment. If an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT or ACAS in Victoria (more information)) assessment is required then a professional from an ACAT – usually a doctor, nurse, social worker or other health care professional – will come and talk to you about how well you’re coping in your day-to-day life. They’ll also ask you about your general health, and after working out your needs they’ll tell you about the services available in your area that can help.
What is an ACAT and how does it work?
An ACAT provides a free assessment service to older Australians with complex needs to work out their eligibility for the many aged care services available around the country.Read more: What is an ACAT and how does it work?
How an ACAT can help
An assessment can help you access services that you’re eligible for. It can also help you work out the level of assistance you require to manage daily living activities.Read more: How an ACAT can help
How long does an ACAT approval last?
An ACAT approval for Australian Governenment-funded aged care services generally lasts for 12 months. After this, if you are not receiving the service you have been approved for, you’ll need to be reassessed to work out whether your needs have changed.Read more: How long does an ACAT approval last?
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