There have been some recent and important changes that have been made to My Aged Care. These changes include new features to make it easier for care recipients and their representatives to find information about services and apply for assessment. In addition to contacting My Aged Care on 1800 200 422, there is now an option for you (or representatives acting on your behalf) to apply for an assessment directly on the My Aged Care webpage. Online applications for assessment can be completed at https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment/apply-online
Whilst I am discussing the subject of service referrals, it is perhaps timely to reiterate that before you can access government-subsidised aged care services for the first time, you need to apply for an assessment through My Aged Care. If you are an existing service recipient and seeking additional services to those you have already been approved or feel that your care needs are increasing, you will need to contact My Aged Care for a reassessment. Please remember that MICare can only provide you with funded services that you have been approved through My Aged Care. To access Aged Care services, you must be 65 or over or an Indigenous person aged 50 and over.
If you are under 65 and in need of supports, you may be able to access services through MICare under the Queensland Community Support Scheme (QCSS). The QCSS is a Queensland Government funded program that is available to persons with a disability, who are not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Referrals for the QCSS must be made through the QCSS Access Point either by calling 1800 600 300 or by completing the self-registration form online at https://www.serviceavailabilityregister.com.au/
Should you require support with making a referral for services either through My Aged Care or the QCSS, please contact MICare on (07) 4758 1506 and one of our friendly staff will be pleased to assist.
Above: Magnetic Island Community Care activities for the month of May.