How to Access - Bene Aged Care

Finding the right care for you

Care shouldn’t feel like a step back, but a step forward and an opportunity to continue growing as an individual. As your needs change, Bene is always here to help. Our nurturing and positive care philosophy meets individual needs through specialist care and lifestyle programs that have been developed with over 45 years of experience.

Unsure about where to start?

Simply call us on 08 8131 2000 or send us an enquiry via our Get in Touch page. Our friendly customer service team will arrange a one-on-one consultation specific to your needs to help you understand the options available to you. We can also assist you to take the necessary steps to access the care you require.

What are the steps?

Bene’s one-on-one consultation service will guide you every step of the way, but we also know that it helps you to understand the process. Here is a basic outline of the steps needed to access Bene’s care services.

First, choose the type of care you require

Home Care
Residential Care

Overview

Step 1 - Eligibility

Step 2 - What is right for you?

Step 3 - Understanding the costs

Step 4 - Develop a care plan

Step 5 - Home Care Agreement

Summary

Step 1 - Eligibility

Step 2 - Income and assets assessment

Step 3 - Choose a home

Step 4 - Payment options

Step 5 - Application

Step 6 - Residential Care Agreement

Summary

Overview

Depending on your needs and circumstances, there are several ways to access home care services. If you meet the eligibility criteria, government funding may be available through Home Care Packages or the Commonwealth Home Support Program. Alternatively, you can pay privately for any of our services at any time.

The two types of Government subsidised care are:

Home Care Packages (HCP) for older people requiring a comprehensive range of services.
Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) for older people requiring entry level care.

The steps below may help as a guide to accessing government-subsidised services. If you have questions about the process, Bene can provide you with step-by-step assistance. Simply call 08 8131 2000.

You can also privately fund your care

This fee-for-service option means less paperwork, less waiting, and you can work directly with Bene to design a level of service that’s tailored for you. You can also access privately funded care while you’re waiting for a government-subsidised care service to be approved or if you already receive a government-subsidised care service but would like additional services.

Click here for a more detailed outline of the Home Care Costs Explained.

Step 1 - Eligibility

What’s your eligibility?

The first step is to find out your eligibility for seeking aged care services which are subsidised by the Australian Government. This involves registering with My Aged Care for a client record and organising a free assessment of your care needs by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or the Regional Assessment Service (RAS).

The assessment and approval process may take several weeks, so it is recommended that you start this process early to ensure that you are better placed to receive care services when you need them.

Contact Bene on 08 8131 2000 and let us make a referral for an assessment on your behalf, or you may wish to register online with My Aged Care or by calling 1800 200 422.

Step 2 - What is right for you?

What home services are right for you?

If you wish to receive care at home, Bene can provide you with information about the kinds of services we provide to help you consider what is right for you. If you are approved for a Home Care Package following your My Aged Care assessment, you will be placed on a national waitlist and may sometimes experience lengthy wait times for a package to become available.

To find out more about our Home Care services and the support options available to you while you wait, contact us online or call on 08 8131 2000.

Step 3 - Understanding the costs

Understanding the costs

Care fees may vary between providers depending on the range and level of services and expertise they offer. We’ve outlined details of the government-subsidised Home Care Packages scheme at Home Care Costs Explained.

For an explanation about the costs for the different levels of care and types of services, simply talk to a member of the Bene customer service team by calling 08 8131 2000.

Step 4 - Develop a care plan

Consult with Bene about your care

Once you have been allocated a government-subsidised care service, a Bene consultant can work with you to develop a tailored care plan that best meets your needs and goals. This plan will detail the level of care and services and associated fees to form an agreement for signature.

To discuss your care plan, contact Bene on 08 8131 2000.

Step 5 - Home Care Agreement

Signing the Home Care Agreement

With everything now in place, all you need to do is sign the agreement. It will outline the care and services being provided and the fees payable and will also include a start date to commence services so that you can get on with living life to the fullest.

Summary

Further general information on aged care services can be obtained through the My Aged Care website or on 1800 200 422.

Step 1 - Eligibility

What’s your eligibility?

The assessment and approval process may take several weeks, so it is recommended that you start this process early to ensure that you are better placed to receive care services when you need them.

Contact Bene on 08 8131 2000 and let us make a referral for an assessment on your behalf, or you may wish to register online with My Aged Care or by calling 1800 200 422.

Step 2 - Income and assets assessment

Income and assets assessment

To confirm your eligibility to receive a subsidy toward some or all of your care, a Government Combined Assets and Income Test will need to be arranged. This process may take several weeks so it is recommended to start this early. Details can be found on the My Aged Care website.

Step 3 - Choose a home

Choose your Bene home

Bene’s conveniently located homes each offer a uniquely caring environment. We can consult with you about the level of care you require and the kinds of services we can provide to help you choose the home that best meets your needs. You can contact Bene anytime online at our Get in Touch page, or call on 08 8131 2000 during normal business hours to arrange a tour.

Step 4 - Payment options

Know your payment options

Generally, how much you will pay for your care and the payment options best suited to your needs will depend on your financial circumstances. Bene recommends you seek independent financial advice prior to making any final decisions. Bene is also happy to discuss the standard costs associated with our residential care with you in person or over the phone. Simply call Bene on 08 8131 2000.

For information about residential care costs take a look at Residential Care Fees Explained.

Step 5 - Application

Consult with Bene about your application

Once you have received the outcome of your assessments, you’ll need to contact Bene to submit your application and provide information so we can properly understand your needs, including your care preferences and medical information. This will help us to ensure you receive the best quality care that’s right for you.

To discuss your application, call Bene on 08 8131 2000.

Step 6 - Residential Care Agreement

Signing the Residential Care Agreement

With everything now in place, all you need to do is sign the agreement. It will outline the services being provided, the fees payable and other details including your new address and a start date for receiving care.

For assistance moving into a Bene home, speak to our friendly customer service team. We’re here to welcome you.

Summary

For assistance or further information about Residential Care call Raylene Moore on 08 8131 2000.