Common NDIS Questions During the COVID-19 Pandemic

In 2020, we have had a year that nobody could have predicted. We’ve seen recessions hit certain countries, and wars affect continents, but rarely do we see something that affects the vast majority of countries on the planet. With this in mind, we’re in unprecedented times. Every country is in new territory and trying to handle the problems that come as they appear.

If you’re somebody who relies on the support of a health professional, you might be concerned about your own needs during the pandemic. Today, we’re going to answer some of the most common questions.

How is the NDIS helping participants?

Every day, the situation seems to change, and different laws and regulations are introduced. However, a NDIS Cairns manager tells us that we do know that NDIS plans are being extended (up to 24 months in some cases).With this, it allows for continuity with support. For NDIS staff, they’re focusing on the most urgent cases.

When the pandemic first arrived, they came up with a strategy so that participants and families would still receive critical disability support services. Also, the following steps have been implemented:

• Telephone meetings rather than face-to-face contact wherever possible
• Data sharing with territories and states
• Financial assistance to providers

With this last point, there have been alterations to the cancellation policies, advanced payments, and 10% COVID-19 loading for some supports.

What should I do?

Unfortunately, we’re starting to see just how COVID-19 will affect us not just now but for many years to come. In truth, we’re going to have a new normal. With this, consider your essential support and what you need to survive. From here, create a plan with your provider. In the months to come, this will ensure that you get the support critical to your own needs.

I’m self-isolating, does this mean a support worker can’t visit my home?

If you’re self-isolating for whatever reason, we recommend looking at the most recent advice from the Department of Health. On the website, they explain the up-to-date information about protecting yourself and others. Also, there’s a section for the elderly and disability care niche.

As somebody who receives care, know that providers and healthcare professionals are getting the right training and support themselves. For example, the Department of Health created a 30-minute training video online for all those providing care during the pandemic.

What do I do if my support worker can’t meet my needs?

If this happens, get in touch with your provider as soon as possible. For NDIS participants, know that providers have a duty of care and must adhere to the NDIS Practice Standards and NDIS Code of Conduct. In our experience, the provider will be in touch with you before you have a chance to panic about this problem. Again, you can discuss your needs, and a replacement worker is usually sent to meet these needs.

My support worker has self-isolated, are they ready to be in my home?

After hearing of your support worker self-isolating, it can be worrying knowing that they will be in your home again soon. All good providers now have systems in place to ensure that all support workers are absolutely safe to be working again. If you’re worried, contact your provider and ask for their own systems.

What if I have any other questions?

If you have any other questions about your care during the COVID-19 pandemic or your support in general, seek help from an NDIS plan management provider such as Kukoon (https://kukoon.com.au)!