April COVID-19 NDIS Pricing Changes
The NDIA has announced more temporary pricing changes. These will help providers continue to deliver supports to participants whilst COVID-19 restrictions are in place. In total, 5 new line items have been added to the NDIS Price Guide. The temporary changes build on those announced back in March.
Below is our easy breakdown of the changes and what you should know about the temporary line items. They are all effective from 30 April 2020.
Low cost assistive technology (AT)
A support item called ‘COVID-19 Low Cost AT to support Capacity Building support delivery’ is now in the Price Guide.
The line item was added to help participants’ access supports and interpreting services which are now being delivered online. Participants can use their capacity building funds to claim for low cost AT items. This will enable them to continue receiving funded supports and services.
Items that can be claimed include fitness equipment and smart devices. For example, a participant could purchase an iPad or tablet. This would enable them to access online sessions so they can continue receiving supports. The introduction of this line item is great news. It is a win-win for many participants and providers.
There are some limitations. The cost of a smart device must not exceed $750. Participants can also only use their funds to buy low cost AT items if they meet certain requirements. These are all listed in the Price Guide. Two of the requirements involve providers. Firstly, the participant must discuss with their provider about what is the most appropriate low cost AT for their individual needs. The provider must also confirm in writing that the item is necessary for continuing the support.
Hospital discharge
2 temporary support items are now in the Price Guide for participants discharged from hospital:
‘COVID-19 Hospital Discharge – AT Rental Products for Personal Care and Safety’
‘COVID-19 Hospital Discharge – AT Rental for Personal Mobility and Transfer’
The items have been added to provide participants discharged from hospital with immediate access to any Assistive Technology they need to be safe for 30 days. This is until their short, medium and long-term needs for Assistive Technology and Home Modification can be assessed and an amended plan is in place.
Supported independent living (SIL)
2 support items have been introduced for participants who are diagnosed with COVID-19 and are in SIL arrangements:
‘COVID-19 SIL Cleaning Services’
This support item can be used for a $300 one-off professional deep clean of a residence of a participant newly diagnosed with COVID-19.
‘COVID-19 SIL Additional Supports’
This line item allows a participant diagnosed with COVID-19 in SIL to access additional supports. $1,200 can be claimed each day for the participant in addition to the usual SIL claim. The item recognises the costs of additional staff, Personal Protective Equipment, laundering and other essential activities due to the participant having COVID-19. This item can be claimed from the confirmed date of infection until the participant is no longer infectious. This is generally for 14 days.
Please remember that these 5 new line items are only temporary. They apply from 30 April 2020 until 30 September 2020, with a review before the end of June. The changes will help participants get the support they need during these unusual circumstances. They will also support providers to keep operating with restrictions in place. If you need more information on the changes head to the NDIS website or look at the NDIS Price Guide and Support Catalogue 2019-20.
Make sure you read our other Blog to ensure you know about the pricing updates announced in March. These include the increase in price limits, cancellations, new line items for support coordination and advance payment.
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