Commonwealth Home Support Program vs Home Care Packages
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP) are two key Australian Government programs aimed at assisting older Australians to live independently in their own homes for as long as they can. Both services are a part of the broader Aged Care system in Australia but differ in terms of their scope, funding, and the level of care they provide. Let’s understand the difference between CHSP v/s HCP
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
Basic Home Care Needs
CHSP is designed to meet basic care needs and is often considered an entry-level program. It’s suitable for those who need a small amount of assistance with daily tasks.
Types of Services
Services under CHSP include help with household chores, personal care, meals and food preparation, respite care, and basic home maintenance. It also includes community participation, like transport assistance to appointments or social activities.
Assessment and Eligibility
Access to CHSP services requires an assessment by the Regional Assessment Service (RAS). The assessment determines eligibility and the type of Aged Care services that would be most beneficial.
Cost and Funding
CHSP is a subsidised program, meaning the government pays a portion of the service cost. However, users are expected to contribute to the cost if they can afford to.
Flexibility and Choice
While CHSP offers support, it’s less flexible compared to My Aged Care Home Care Packages (HCP). The choice of service providers and the types of services are relatively limited in the CHSP program.
Therefore, if you require more funding and option to choose your own Home Care Provider, Home Care Package is a much better option.
Home Care Packages (HCP)
Complex Home Care Needs
Home Care Packages are for older people with more complex care needs that go beyond what CHSP can provide. It’s a consumer-directed care approach that allows more flexibility.
Levels of Home Care Packages
There are four levels of Home Care Packages, ranging from Level 1 for basic care needs to Level 4 Home Care Package for high-level care needs. Each level receives a different amount of government funding.
Customised Home Care Plans
Under Home Care Package program, you work with a chosen service provider to develop a care plan that’s tailored to your specific needs. This plan can include a broader range of services than CHSP, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and more intensive personal or nursing care.
Assessment and Eligibility
To access for Home Care Packages, an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT assessment) is necessary. This assessment is more comprehensive than the RAS assessment for CHSP.
HCP Cost and Funding
My Aged Care Home Care Packages have a greater government subsidy than CHSP, but the amount depends on the level of the Home Care Package. Participants may still be required to contribute to the cost, based on their financial situation.
Conclusion
Choosing between Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP) depends on the individual’s care needs and personal circumstances. CHSP is ideal for those needing minor assistance, offering basic services to help maintain independence. In contrast, HCP offers more comprehensive, tailored support for those with complex care needs. Understanding these differences is crucial for individuals and their families to make informed decisions about Aged Care services. Both programs reflect the Australian Government’s commitment to supporting older Australians in living fulfilling, healthy, and independent lives at home.
Contact CareAbout for Home Care Provider Support
Finding a My Aged Care accredited Home Care Package provider is not easy. To help simplify the process for you, we can help you find and connect with a quality local Home Care Provider in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide and across Australia. Contact us today and get free, no-obligation access to our team of Aged Care Specialists.
