Navigating PACE: A Comprehensive Guide for NDIS Participants
Lotus Assist Plan Management is committed to providing support and guidance to NDIS participants. In light of the innovative PACE system introduced by the NDIA, our goal is to equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate these upcoming changes seamlessly. This guide delves into the crucial aspects of PACE, offering insights into its composition, functionality, and the essential steps for a smooth transition.
Understanding PACE
PACE, the cutting-edge computer system by the NDIA, marks a significant enhancement aimed at improving the NDIS experience for both participants and service providers.
Imagine it as a home computer upgrade, tailored to deliver better support and services to participants, their families, and caregivers. The rollout of PACE is scheduled to unfold over an 18-month period, commencing at the end of October 2023.
Preparing for PACE
For current participants, no immediate action is required. If a plan change is requested or mandated starting October 30th, the transition to the new PACE system will take place. Participants undergoing scheduled plan reassessments, without the need for plan changes, will shift to PACE at the next reassessment or sooner if a plan alteration is necessary.
New participants entering the scheme from October 31st will be established using the PACE system from the beginning. The NDIA will provide ongoing communication throughout the process, and Lotus Assist will extend support and guidance.
Changes to Plan Management Service Agreements
Participants are now required to ‘endorse’ service providers, including plan managers like Lotus Assist, through the NDIA. This endorsement process is applicable when enrolling in plan management and support coordination or when initiating a new plan.
How PACE Operates
Changes to Support Types and Categories: As participants transition to the PACE system, they will encounter adjustments in support types and categories. These modifications include the introduction of a new support type called Recurring Transport, additional categories within Core, Capital, and Capacity Building supports, and updates to existing category names under Capacity Building.
Recurring Transport: A self-managed category dedicated to regular transport payments.
New Categories:
- Core Supports: Home and Living, Young People in Residual Aged Care (YPIRAC).
- Capital Supports: Assistive Technology Maintenance, Repair and Replacement, Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA).
- Capacity Building: Behaviour Supports.
Updated Category Names:
- Support Coordination is now Support Coordination and Psychosocial Recovery Coach.
- Improved Relationships is now Relationships.
- Improved Health and Wellbeing is now Health and Wellbeing.
- Improved Learning is now Lifelong Learning.
- Improved Life Choices is now Choice and Control.
It’s crucial to note that the five new categories are considered ‘stated supports,’ meaning they are non-flexible funds that cannot be transferred to other supports.
Plan Management Service Agreements: Under the PACE system, participants will maintain a service agreement with plan managers, such as Lotus Assist. However, a new process requires participants to ‘endorse’ service providers, including plan management and support coordination providers, through the NDIA. This endorsement process takes place when a participant signs up for plan management and support coordination or when initiating a new plan.
Embracing Change
Change, though demanding, presents an opportunity for growth and enhancement. Welcome the changes ushered in by PACE as a step toward a more efficient and participant-centric NDIS experience. Participants have the ability to adapt and leverage the improved features and support categories introduced by PACE.
Stay Curious
In navigating PACE, curiosity becomes your ally. Stay inquisitive about the new support types, categories, and alterations to the plan management process. Participate in optional plan implementation meetings to kickstart your plan effectively. Seek clarification when necessary, as a deeper understanding empowers you to make well-informed decisions about your NDIS plan.
PACE symbolizes a significant advancement in the NDIS landscape, promising a more streamlined and participant-centric experience. Lotus Assist is prepared for PACE and committed to guiding you through this transition. Remember, PACE isn’t a complete overhaul; fundamental supports, the structure of NDIS plans, item support numbers, the NDIS Act, provider registration processes, and NDIS Commission obligations remain unchanged.
As you embark on this PACE journey, Lotus Assist is here to support you at every step. Embrace the changes, maintain curiosity, and let’s collectively make the most of the improved NDIS experience. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us. Your success with PACE is our top priority at Lotus Assist.