We hope you’ve been enjoying the warm “winter” weather and are ready to take on another week!
We want to let you know some extremely important information regarding those of you who may still have CAEATI funding remaining.
As you may be aware, with the implementation of the NDIS across Queensland, there are several regions which have already transitioned to NDIS funding and therefore whose entitlement to CAEATI has ceased.
The Brisbane Council area transitions to NDIS in July 2018, which means that ALL CAEATI applications need to be submitted prior to 31st March, 2018. Please note, this date may be brought forward as we have seen in several other areas.
We are finding that there are extremely long delays (more than eight months) with funding for equipment for children even with APPROVED NDIS plans.
This has meant that even though an equipment trial has been conducted and quotes been sent in with their NDIS plan, many children are going without vital equipment (i.e standing frames, bathing equipment, seating systems and so on) for 9-12 months.
This is including the time that CAEATI applications cease three months prior to the area transitioning to NDIS and waiting times for NDIS planning appointments of approximately 8-9 months, therefore 12 months waiting time altogether.
It is paramount that equipment planning for those of you who currently possess CAEATI funding is completed as soon as possible, to ensure that you are not left without vital equipment for up to a year while your area transitions to NDIS.
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO?
1. For those of you with CAEATI funding remaining, please send in a trial request as soon as possible! There is only three to four months until Special Needs Solutions closes for the year, and we anticipate the first quarter of next year to be very busy. Trial requests allow us to meet our Quality Assurance program, and provide us with crucial information regarding measurements and the appropriate size and category of equipment. Without these forms we CANNOT complete a calendar booking.
2. Please also be aware that MASS funding will remain up until the day you sign your plans, so these trials can continue up until next year.
3. In terms of CAEATI funding, please note that this funding can be used for Standing Frames and Seating Systems under the CAEATI category of Postural Support i.e access to the community does not need to be justified for these items. For more information, please see the CAEATI website.
Thank you for considering these important issues and for any further enquiries, please contact one of our friendly team members via email.
Enjoy the rest of your week!