The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a Federal Government initiative that supports Australians living with a disability. It is a needs-based system, which means the level of support a person receives is based on their needs and goals. If you are already receiving support through the NDIS, you will need to go through a reassessment of your plan before the plan end date. The reassessment is meant to ensure your plan continues to match and meet your needs as they evolve over time. Let’s explore how you can prepare for your next NDIS plan reassessment.
What Is An NDIS Plan Reassessment?
The NDIS Plan Reassessment is a procedural review of the support you’ve been getting, it ensures your NDIS plan continues to meet your needs. The reassessment takes into consideration any changes in your personal circumstances, such as your health, living situation or work life: and your plan will be updated accordingly. The reassessment process is quite significant as it helps ensure you get the most out of your plan and receive the right support level. It is also an opportunity to review your goals and objectives and update them if necessary.
Why Do You Need To Have Your NDIS Plan Reassessed?
If you’re an NDIS participant, you might be wondering why you need to have your plan reassessed. Here’s a look at some of the reasons why reassessment may be necessary:
- Your needs may have changed: If you have experienced a change in your health or circumstances, your needs may have changed as well. A reassessment can help ensure that your plan still meets your needs.
- It’s been a while: If it’s been a while since your last assessment, a reassessment can help to ensure that your plan is still relevant and up to date.
- You’re new to the NDIS: If you’re new to the NDIS, a reassessment can help ensure your plan is tailored specifically to meet your needs.
What Happens During An NDIS Plan Reassessment?
It’s important to be prepared for your plan reassessment. This will help you get the most out of your review and have your say in what goes into your next plan. Here’s what you can expect during the reassessment process:
- An interview with your planer is an opportunity for you to discuss any changes in your circumstances or needs since your last assessment.
- Review your current plan: Your coordinator will review your current plan with you to see how it’s working out for you and if any key areas need to be updated.
- Setting goals for the next plan period: Together, you and your coordinator will set some goals for the next plan period. These could be anything from getting more involved in community activities to trying new types of support or therapies.
- Developing a draft plan: Your coordinator will use all the information gathered during the reassessment process to develop your new plan.
- Reviewing and finalising the new plan: Once you’ve reviewed the draft plan, you’ll have a chance to provide feedback and make any changes before it’s finalised.
How To Prepare For Your NDIS Plan Reassessment?
Like most people with plans, you’ll probably think about your reassessment only after you receive a notice saying it’s time for it. Preparing for your reassessment in advance can help ensure the process goes smoothly.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your plan reassessment:
- Gather all the documentation you need. It includes any reports or assessments from health professionals, school teachers or therapists and any progress notes or diary entries you may have kept.
- Make sure you understand what will happen during the reassessment process. This way, you can be prepared to answer any questions the assessor may have.
- Be honest about how your disability has affected your life since your last assessment. It’s important to be open and honest about the good and the bad so that your assessor can understand how your disability impacts your life.
- Advocate for yourself: If there are things you feel strongly about, make sure you voice them during the reassessment process. It is your assessment, and it’s important to reflect on your needs and wants.
What You Need for Your Plan Reassessment Meeting
It’s important to prepare well for your NDIS plan reassessment. When you have your plan reassessment meeting, you must ensure everything you need to make the best out of it. It means having the right documentation and other materials that will help support your case. Here is a list of everything that you should bring with you to your plan reassessment meeting:
- Your current NDIS plan
- Your most recent assessment report
- Any reports or documentation from health professionals, therapists, or support workers
- A list of any changes or updates since your last plan review. It could include changes in your health, living situation, or support needs.
- Any goals or objectives that you would like to achieve in the next year
- A list of any new supports or services that you think you may need
- Any other relevant information or documentation that you think will be helpful in your reassessment
Speak to your case manager or NDIS support coordinator about your plans. They will provide valuable input and guidance as you prepare for your reassessment. Another great option is to attend any pre-reassessment meetings or planning sessions that the NDIA offers. These can be a great opportunity to ask questions and get more information about the process.
When it’s time for your NDIS plan reassessment, there are a few things you can do to make the process as smooth as possible. Review your current plan and identify areas where you feel it can be improved. List these areas and be prepared to discuss them at length with your reassessment team. Think about the changes since your last assessment that might impact your support needs. It could include changes in your health, accommodation, or family situation. Again, be prepared to share this information with your reassessment team.
