According to a recent study, “over 530,000 participants are now receiving individualised funding packages for disability-related supports” through the National Disability Insurance Scheme. This is promising, especially when you consider the fact that 4.4 million people in Australia have some kind of disability which equates to around 1 in 6 (18%) of the population, and many people require the support that these funding packages provide. After all, the current NDIS system enables disabled adults to gain access to the appropriate care and support services, allowing them to enjoy life once more.
Should you have recently received funding, or a funding plan, you are now faced with the task of choosing a provider to deliver these services to you. In most cases, you can choose between using a registered or unregistered NDIS provider.
What is the Difference between a Registered NDIS Provider and an Unregistered Provider?
The primary difference between the two providers lies in the fact that a registered provider has been approved by the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), meaning they meet their strict requirements when it comes to providing care. Unregistered providers, while still having relevant qualifications and experience, do not have the same backing. In some cases, unregistered providers may simply be unwilling to pay the fees associated with becoming a registered provider, especially if their business is on the smaller side.
Your plan also dictates which kind of provider you can work alongside. Participations with NDIS-managed plans can only use NDIS-registered providers, whereas unregistered providers can be used should you have a plan-managed or self-managed NDIS plan. To put it simply, plan-managed or self-managed NDIS plans give you more freedom when it comes to selecting a provider, which means you must consider your options carefully in order to make the best decision for your health and well-being.
Top 5 Benefits of Using a Registered NDIS Provider.
There are many benefits of using a registered NDIS service provider to ensure you receive the appropriate support and care. For example:
- Registered providers uphold high quality and safety standards.
- Registered Providers offer support with administrative duties.
- Registered Providers can help you make the most out of your plan.
- Registered Providers offer plan management services.
- Registered Providers are highly-qualified and passionate about the work they do.
1. Registered Providers uphold high quality and safety standards.
To become a registered provider, applicants must provide to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission that they possess the relevant skills, qualifications, and insight required to uphold high quality and safety standards when working with their clients. This means that you can expect comprehensive care and support. The commission board not only handles new applicants but also carries out thorough tests to ensure that standards are maintained by all providers.
2. Registered Providers offer support with administrative duties.
Keeping up with the administrative aspects of your NDIS plan and support can prove to be both time-consuming and overwhelming, especially if you struggle to make sense of the paperwork. In most cases, users simply do not have the time to keep up with document after document while also focusing on their wellness and health. Registered providers can help by taking over these duties on your behalf, whether they’re helping you to track and manage your plan’s budget, or processing service provider invoices. This will give you great peace of mind as you know that you
3. Registered Providers can help you make the most out of your plan.
As they have plenty of experience within their field, Registered NDIS Providers are also able to ensure that you’re making the most out of your plan. For example, they may be able to identify areas where you are underspending your funding, such as failing to use your budget to make home modifications that would make your day-to-day life easier. Alternatively, they may encourage you to sign up for additional learning opportunities and courses that enhance your life skills or enable you to find work. Either way, a registered NDIS provider will assess your personal and medical goals, to ensure that the way you spend your funds is contributing towards meeting them.
4. Registered Providers offer plan management services.
One of the biggest challenges that NDIS recipients face is managing their plans, but registered providers often provide their clients with plan management services that make this process as easy and straightforward as possible. This does not mean that you have to relinquish control or hand important decisions over to them, but rather that you can make these decisions from a more informed viewpoint and with greater understanding.
This also removes the chances of you making costly mistakes, such as overspending on your budget, exceeding the limits of your plan, or failing to process invoices and payments. As a result of this support and guidance, you can spend less time stressing or pouring over paperwork and more time enjoying your life and having fun.
5. Registered Providers are highly-qualified and passionate about the work they do.
As mentioned above, in order to receive certification and become a registered NDIS provider, applicants must demonstrate dedication to their craft. Not only does this pertain to an understanding of legal requirements, but they must also possess a range of relevant qualifications and a wealth of experience. This means they’re in the best possible position to offer you quality support and care at the times when you need it most.
In short, there are many reasons why you may consider using a registered NDIS provider instead of opting for a non-registered provider. While both practitioners are there to offer care and support, the services provided by registered providers are backed by the NDIS and often offer more comprehensive plans and care.
Looking for an NDIS-registered plan management provider near you?
We provide services across Australia, including major cities and regional New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia. To chat with someone about services in your area, please do not hesitate to get in touch today.
