Home Care Packages

Home Care Packages and private health insurance

What are Home Care Packages?

If you are older and have complex needs, you can get a Home Care Package to help you live independently in your own home.

Many older people choose a Home Care Package because it helps them stay at home rather than go into Residential Aged Care.

If you get a Home Care Package, it should be designed to suit your personal circumstances.

You could receive these types of services:

• clinical care (including nursing, allied health and physiotherapy services)
• personal care (including assistance with bathing and grooming)
• help with household tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning and laundry
• minor home modifications
• equipment (for example, walking frames)
• transport
• social outings, groups and visitors.

There are 4 levels of Home Care Package:

• Level 1 – basic care needs for $10,271.10 per year
• Level 2 – low care needs for $18,063.85 per year
• Level 3 – intermediate care needs for $39,310.50 per year
• Level 4 – high care needs for $59,593.55 per year.

You can work out with your Home Care Package provider the best way to spend your funding. You have the flexibility to pick and choose services you need.

Find out more about Home Care Packages on the myagedcare website.

Does private health insurance cover Home Care Packages?

No. Private health insurance does not cover the cost of Home Care Packages.

Does Medicare cover Home Care Packages?

No. Medicare does not cover the cost of Home Care Packages.

Does the Australian Government help with the cost of Home Care Packages?

Yes. The Australian Government helps with the cost of Home Care Packages, if you need it.

If you can afford it, you are expected to contribute to the cost of your Home Care Package.

Your contribution is made up of 3 types of fee:

1. A basic daily fee
2. An income-tested care fee (based on a formal income assessment)
3. Additional fees (if you select services not covered by your Home Care Package).

Before you receive a Government-funded Home Care Package, you need an ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) Assessment.

Find out more about ACAT Assessments and the cost of Home Care Packages on the myagedcare website.