After you find a provider that matches your needs and has availability, you can enter into an agreement to start receiving care. In this section, you can learn about the different types of service agreements and how to set up your services. If you’re moving into an aged care home, you’ll also find information on what to expect.
How to set up your services
Once you’ve chosen your preferred provider, they will offer you an agreement before you start to receive services.
There are different types of service agreements, depending on the type of care, but they all generally cover:
- your services – the exact care and services that will be provided to meet your care needs
- your fees or contributions – what you have agreed to pay for your services.
You may also work with your provider to develop a care plan, depending on your services. This plan can outline your care needs, how your provider will meet them, and any preferences or considerations about your care. This is a separate document to your service agreement.
Finalising your agreement
When you’re happy with the terms of your service agreement, you can ‘enter into an agreement’ with your provider. This is usually done by signing the agreement to declare that you understand and accept the terms.
Your service agreement is a legal contract between you and your provider, so make sure you understand what it contains before signing it. If you have any questions, you can ask your provider ahead of time. You can also ask family, friends, carers or a legal professional for help.
Moving into an aged care home – what to expect
If you’ve been approved for residential aged care and are moving into an aged care home, there are a number of things to consider. Knowing who you need to inform, what you can bring with you, and what to expect after you’ve moved in can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Accessing your information online
When you register with My Aged Care, with your consent a personalised record is created for you. This is called your client record.
You can access your client record through your My Aged Care Online Account. Here, you can update your personal information, see if you’ve been approved for services, print out referrals to services, see waiting times, review service charges, update your registered supporters, and more.