Home Care Packages (HCPs) are an Australian government program designed to help older adults live independently in their own homes for as long as possible. They are part of the broader aged care system, intended for individuals who have complex care needs that go beyond what the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) offers. The HCP program is consumer-directed, allowing individuals or their caregivers to have significant control over the types of care and services they receive, based on their specific needs and preferences.
Home Care Packages are categorized into four levels, each providing a different subsidy amount, which is paid to the service provider on behalf of the individual. These levels are designed to cater to varying degrees of care needs, from basic to high.
Level 1: Basic Care Needs
- Level 1 packages are designed for people with basic care needs. Services may include, but are not limited to:
- Basic help with household tasks
- Assistance with shopping and meal preparation
- Transport to appointments
- Basic home maintenance
- Social support
Level 2: Low-Level Care Needs
- Level 2 packages support people with low-level care needs. Services can include everything in Level 1, plus:
- More comprehensive support with household tasks
- Personal care such as help with bathing, dressing, and grooming
Level 3: Intermediate Care Needs
- Level 3 packages are intended for people with intermediate care needs. These packages may cover:
- All services provided in Levels 1 and 2
- Nursing services
- Allied health support, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and podiatry
- More complex assistance with personal care
Level 4: High-Level Care Needs
- Level 4 packages provide for people with high-level care needs. This includes all the services available in the previous levels, with additional support for:
- Complex nursing care
- Extensive help with personal care
- Palliative care
Common Services Across All Levels
Across all levels, Home Care Packages can also fund:
- Modifications to the home, like installing safety rails
- Clinical care, including nursing, physiotherapy, and other allied health services
- Assistive technology and equipment (e.g., walking frames)
- Medication management
- Care coordination and case management
Customizing the Package
An essential feature of the HCP program is its flexibility. Individuals can tailor the package to suit their unique needs, choosing services that best support their independence and quality of life. The funding can also be adjusted over time as the individual’s needs change.
To access a Home Care Package, individuals must first be assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) to determine their eligibility and the level of care required. Once a package is allocated, the individual or their nominated representative can work with a chosen home care provider to develop a care plan that specifies the services to be delivered.