If you are reading this, you have already applied for your MyAgedCare assessment. Well done! It isn’t easy to navigate the aged care funding process, but you’re part way there. 

Now that you’ve submitted your initial application form, you might wait 4-6 weeks before an assessor can meet with you. During the COVID-19 pandemic, most assessments are happening over the phone or via video call. MyAgedCare will be in touch with you, to arrange a time for that appointment.

There are things you can do to prepare while you’re waiting. Preparing properly for your in-person assessment is important. Here’s what you need to be doing now. 

  1. Think about who you want with you

You can have a support person with you during your assessment. This could be a carer, a friend or a family member. Who can support you well in this process? Who understands your needs and desires best? Chat with them, and ask them to attend your assessment appointment. If you don’t have anyone you can ask, National Aged Care Advocacy can provide you with an advocate for free. You can call them on 1800 700 600.

  1. Speak to your GP 

Your assessor will need to know your medical information. They will need to know about any current conditions, treatment plans and referrals. Make an appointment with your GP to collect this information. Tell your GP that you are applying for aged care funding. Ask them for a copy of any paperwork about your care needs, so you can give this to your assessor.  Make sure you write down the contact details of your GP. Your assessor will want to know this information.

  1. Collect the documents you need

Your assessor will need to see your medicare card. They also need to see another form of ID, such as your driver’s license, passport or birth certificate. If you currently receive some form of support, you need to collect any paperwork which is associated with that—such as registration forms or receipts. Put all these documents in one place, together with any paperwork your GP gives you.

  1. Write down your questions

Your assessment is a great chance to ask questions. We recommend writing down a list of these questions, so you can go through them with your assessor. Think about the kind of support you want. Consider whether there are any local service providers, such as Just Better Care, you’d like to use. You can ask your assessor about this—or about anything.

You can make your assessment faster and more effective with a little bit of preparation. Find a support person, speak to your GP, gather your documents and write down your questions. By taking these steps, you will be well prepared for your MyAgedCare assessment. That means you’ll be one step closer to securing funding for in-home support.