Maintaining service flexibility under Support at Home

One of the most helpful features of the old Home Care Packages (HCP) program was the flexibility it provided to both participants and providers, allowing them to adjust care and services through mutual agreement and negotiation. If a person's care needs or circumstances changed, we could work directly with you to arrange necessary referrals and updates to redirect your package funds to where they were most needed.

It is reassuring to know that all HCP participants receiving or approved for a home care package before October 31, 2025, are automatically approved for all service categories and types under Support at Home. This means that your service access and flexibility will not change.

However, the Support at Home program treats newer entrants differently. Participants assessed and approved after November 1, 2025, will only be able to use their quarterly budget for specific, pre-approved service types. They will not have the same flexibility to add new services if their care needs change, and must wait for a formal Service Plan Review before being allowed to use a new service type, regardless of whether their quarterly budget can cover it.

However, if you currently have a home care package Level 1, 2, 3 or 4, there is something important to consider. If you are reassessed and assigned a new Support at Home classification level in the future, you may lose some of the flexibility to adjust your care and services according to your changing needs.

This doesn't mean you should avoid being assessed for a higher budget if you need it; rather, it's advisable to carefully plan for the formal assessment. Make sure to clearly communicate all your needs, so you are approved for as many service types as you qualify for at that time.

Working closely with your care partner to plan for your assessment will ensure you achieve the best possible outcome for your future care needs.