Tips and advice

Self managed vs Home Care Package Provider: which is best for you?

Home Care Packages are not one-size-fits-all. People have various needs, goals and living situations.

Which is why Home Care Packages can be managed in two ways: independently or by a Home Care Provider. Not sure which is right for you or your loved one? Let us walk you through both options.

First things first – what’s does each one involve?

Both are valid choices with their own benefits.

With the provider-managed option, a home care expert will work closely with you to understand your needs and then provide advice to ensure you are getting the most out of your Home Care Package. They will also handle all the logistics of your care team and any services you require – so you don’t have to.

They coordinate referrals to your specialists, help select your Care Companions and arrange the specific services you need (whether it’s podiatry, cleaning or something else).

Alternatively, with a self-managed package, you are responsible for your own care planning, management and services. You’ll still need a Home Care Provider to handle the government funding arrangements, but they will be largely hands free in relation to your care.  

Practically speaking, one of the key differences between the two is cost.

Both options incur a fee, but the provider-managed fee is higher. Age Up’s fee, for instance, comes in at 27%. Other providers can have a range of fees that can quickly add up, such as daily fees, travel costs, exit fees and more. On the other hand, the fee for a self-managed package sits at around 12 to 15%.

So which option is right for you? Let’s look more closely at each.

Strapped for time with various needs? Consider provider-managed

Because provider-managed options offer such a comprehensive level of care, they’re a better choice for people with needs beyond the basics.

Your home care expert will work directly with the rest of your care team (like your GP, for example) to ensure your care is kept up with your evolving needs.

That also means you’ll have extra time on your hands, and reduced stress.

Coordinating personal, medical, home safety, social engagements and accessibility requirements can become time-consuming and complex. But with your needs safely in the hands of a home care expert, you get that time back – while also ensuring the highest quality of care.

With a provider-managed package you also get access to a network of pre-qualified care and health care professionals, specialised in home care services. 

Of course, this does mean paying a slightly higher fee. But the peace of mind it brings might just make it worthwhile.

Self-reliant with simple needs? Self-managed might be for you

On the other hand, if you are largely independent and your needs are largely straightforward, a self-managed package may be the way to go.

With this option, you will enjoy two key perks: complete control and less fees. In other words, you can make decisions autonomously (as long as they fall within the government guidelines) and save money doing so.

But there are drawbacks.

Though your needs might be simple now, not having the safety net a provider offers means you could be in a tighter spot if things change.

For example, if your Care Companion needs a sick day, you’ll need to organise a replacement yourself. And if you take a fall? You won’t have a direct line of contact to talk through rehab or other care options.

What’s more, you will need to consider the nitty gritty of your decisions: working within compliance standards, getting the right approvals and managing your budget.

A quick comparison
Here's a summary of what to keep in mind when making your decision.

Self-managed	Provider-managed
12-15% fees (depending on provider)	27% single fee (Age Up only)
Complete control of all aspects	Co-managed care decisions led by clients, and with the support of care provider
Own care planning, no reviews	Care planning & care reviews included
Source own carers & service providers	Network of pre-qualified Care Companions & service providers
No emergency support or shift replacement	Emergency support plans & shift replacements managed for you
Self-educate about government regulations	All government requirements managed

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Handy tips: Managing and planning your home care budget

Time and money are two recurring themes here. And it’s important to consider both in your decision-making. But in the meantime, here are some tips for getting the most out of your Home Care Package – no matter which option you choose:

• Consider small, recurring costs in the long-term.
  Though your payments will come in every month, you’ll be allocated a yearly amount under your Home Care Package. That’s why it’s important not to get stuck in month-to-month thinking. Plan ahead, considering the recurring smaller items, like gardening and cleaning services, that are easy to predict. Knowing they will come out every month, you can factor them into your yearly budget to see how much you’ll have left over.

• Take a goals-oriented approach.
  Do you have any bigger purchases you’re hoping to make? A wheelchair or a scooter for getting around? Or maybe you have an accessibility obstacle in your home, like a large piece of concrete you need removed. You’ll need to let some funds accumulate to be able to pay for those. So plan accordingly. A good Home Care Package Provider can be a great help here – especially when it comes to understanding the Surprising Things you can buy with your Home Care Package.

• Seek professional advice.
  Many Home Care Providers, including Age Up Health, provide care management as a single service, even if you have chosen self-managed care. After paying a single fee, you can seek professional advice from a Care Manager to talk through your budget and goals ahead of time. They’ll tell you how you can spend your funding and how to get the most out of it.

Need support with your Home Care Package?

We’re here to help. Age Up Health provides packages that are designed to keep you happy and healthy at home, where you belong.

Our services are simple.

Expect a single fee and the same friendly face each time. And rest assured that our packages are flexible enough that you can make changes whenever you wish.

Contact us today to find out more.
Or book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our consultants.