My dad is on NDIS and we’re working with a plan manager. We were told there’s almost $45,000 in funding available, but every time we try to get approval for something like mobility aids, it gets denied without any explanation. The plan manager barely communicates with us, so we’re always left in the dark.
We’re supposed to have regular support, like physio, but the physio hasn’t shown up for over 3 months. To make it worse, the weekly cleaner seems to put in the bare minimum effort. Once, we even found them sitting on the couch scrolling through their phone instead of doing their job. On top of that, we were told we need to pay out of pocket for items and then claim reimbursement. How does that work for someone on a disability pension who’s already stretched thin? My dad doesn’t have a credit card or any extra savings to cover this.
Has anyone else dealt with issues like this? Are there better ways to manage this kind of situation or are we getting taken advantage of here? Any advice would be appreciated.
It’s ridiculous that they expect people to pay upfront. Some suppliers can bill NDIS directly though. Maybe check if there are other options before giving up on getting those aids.
My experience with plan managers hasn’t been great either. You can switch to a different one if this one isn’t helping. Ask your local LAC for recommendations.
I had a similar issue. Turned out there was a mix-up with how the funding was allocated in the plan. Try asking for a review meeting with your LAC or even a disability advocate. They can be super helpful.
I’d recommend looking for a new cleaner and physio. It sucks to do the extra work, but there are decent services out there. Also, check if there’s funding for a support coordinator who can handle these issues.
You shouldn’t have to pay upfront for larger disability aids. The plan manager should sort that out with the provider. Maybe look into switching if they’re not being helpful.
Hi There @PierPavane_1978, as others have mentioned, I’d encourage approaching your LAC to have a conversation about your concerns and what your options might be as a starting point as their role is to support you and your dad with the NDIS plan, including using it. Hopefully, they’ll be able to give you a little guidance or point you in the right direction.
It sounds like switching cleaners and physio might be the first step. Does anyone know how to go about finding providers who are reliable?
I’m relieved to hear that finding suppliers who can bill NDIS directly might be an option. I’ll check the NDIS directory and reach out to our LAC for more info.
Switching plan managers is starting to seem necessary. Any tips on what to look for in a good one?
I’ll also contact NDIS directly to get some clarity on the plan. Hopefully, they can explain why things keep getting denied.
For finding reliable providers, I’d definitely recommend checking out local community groups or forums. People often share their experiences, which can be really helpful. When it comes to plan managers, communication is key. Look for someone who’s responsive and takes the time to explain things clearly. If they’re not open to regular check-ins or answering your questions, it might be time to consider another option.
You’re welcome @PierPavane_1978 . In terms of finding providers, including physio, cleaners and plan managers, who work well for you, I wonder if it may be useful to reflect on what your definition of a good provider is- what qualities might they have? what support or care do you need them to provide? Do you or your dad have any preferences for the way this is done? I feel like answering questions like these might help make it clearer for you, and in so doing, help you start to recognise a good provider when you find them. Holding hope you find them soon! Please keep us updated and feel free to circle back with any more questions as they come up.
Hi there!
It definitely sounds like your dad should look into changing up those providers! There are some fantastic options out there Have you checked if your dad has funding in his NDIS plan for support coordination? A reliable support coordinator can provide invaluable support by connecting your dad with suitable, reliable providers to meet his needs! They can also educate your dad on his NDIS funding and build his capacity to manage his own NDIS supports and funding
Best of luck and please feel free to reach out if you need any advice in navigating the NDIS!
Regards,
Community Support Squad
Georgia Kelly
Hi, I have been providing support for some time and doing NDIS only briefly. I think what you are experiencing is common and you should find a better provider. I find that if you don’t tell the cleaner exactly what you want, etc. they will often take advantage and do nothing more than the basics
Have you checked if your dad has funding in his NDIS plan for support coordination? A reliable support coordinator can provide invaluable support by connecting your dad with suitable, reliable providers to meet his needs! They can also educate your dad on his NDIS funding and build his capacity to manage his own NDIS supports and funding