Central to the NDIS is the idea of choice and control, allowing participants to have a say in how their supports are delivered and managed. One of the critical decisions participants make is about the management of their NDIS funding.
Currently, the NDIS offers three main types of plan management: Agency Managed, Self Managed, and Plan Managed. Each option comes with its own set of responsibilities and benefits. In this article, we’ll delve deep into each type, and guide you through the process of transitioning between them, focusing on moving to Plan Managed.
1. Agency Managed (NDIA Managed)
When a participant chooses to be agency managed, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) takes on the responsibility of paying providers directly on behalf of the participant.
Advantages:
- No need to handle the financial aspects of the plan.
- Assurance that providers are NDIS-registered.
Limitations:
- Limited to using only NDIS-registered providers.
- Less direct control over funds.
2. Self Managed
Self-management gives the participant (or their nominee) the responsibility of paying for support directly from their funding.
Advantages:
- Complete control over whom to engage for support, even if they are not NDIS-registered.
- Flexibility to negotiate costs and use supports in innovative ways.
Limitations:
- Takes time and requires administrative skills: participants must keep invoices, receipts, and track expenditures.
- The responsibility of ensuring providers meet safety and quality standards.
3. Plan Managed
With Plan Management, participants engage a Plan Manager, a professional who takes care of the financial side of the NDIS plan. This combines the professional oversight of Agency Managed with the flexibility of Self Managed.
Advantages:
- Access to both registered and non-registered providers.
- The Plan Manager handles all the paperwork, invoicing, and budget tracking.
- Offers a balanced approach between the other two options, providing both control and ease.
Limitations:
- Participants must ensure their plan includes funding for Plan Management.
Transitioning to Plan Managed
If you’re currently either Agency Managed or Self Managed and are considering transitioning to Plan Managed, here’s a guide:
- Review Your Needs: Before making any changes, reflect on your current plan management’s pros and cons. Are you seeking more flexibility? Are you finding the financial tracking and invoicing of self-management overwhelming?
- Update During a Plan Review: The most straightforward time to change your management type is during a plan review. Discuss with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIS representative about wanting to add Plan Management to your plan.
- Mid-plan Changes: While it’s simpler during a review, changes can also be made mid-plan. You’ll need to provide the NDIS with a valid reason for the change. For instance, if you’re self-managing and find the administrative tasks too taxing, this can be a valid reason.
- Choose a Plan Manager: Once approved, select a Plan Manager. Look for reputable Plan Managers with positive reviews and possibly get recommendations from others in the NDIS community.
Why Consider Changing to Plan Managed?
Plan Management offers a sweet spot between the full control of Self Managed and the hands-off approach of Agency Managed. You get:
- Flexibility: Engage a broader range of providers, even if they aren’t NDIS-registered.
- Professional Assistance: All the invoicing, paperwork, and financial tracking are managed by experts, reducing errors and administrative burdens.
- Independent Advice: Many Plan Managers offer guidance on using your funds effectively, ensuring you get the most out of your plan.
KYD-X: Your Partner in Navigating the NDIS Landscape
While we at KYD-X specialise in Support Coordination, we understand the intricacies of the NDIS system. We’ve seen firsthand how the right choice in plan management can significantly affect a participant’s experience. Even though we don’t offer plan management directly, our collaborative approach means we often work alongside many esteemed Plan Managers, ensuring our participants have a smooth NDIS journey.
The NDIS offers choices, and these choices empower its participants. Whether you’re just starting on your NDIS journey or considering a change in how your plan is managed, it’s essential to understand the available options.
While the Agency Managed option offers ease and assurance, Self Managed provides unparalleled control. Plan Managed, on the other hand, attempts to provide the best of both worlds. By understanding each choice’s nuances, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and life circumstances.
Remember, your NDIS journey is personal. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It’s all about what feels right for you.
