How to pick a NDIS provider

For new NDIS participants, the task of picking a supports provider can often be a daunting one. There are a lot of providers out there in the world, and they all seem to offer you the world. But how can you feel sure that your decision is the right one for you? We’ve put together some tips and advice to help you.

How do I choose between NDIS service providers?

Your NDIS service provider is there to help you achieve the goals and objectives in your NDIS plan. Spend some time with someone you trust to talk about your NDIS plan and the supports that you need. When you have decided what types of supports or services you need you can start looking at service providers that would best fit your circumstances.

Having to pick an NDIS service provider may appear daunting, but as a starting point you can search the NDIS website for a list of providers. The NDIS providers are grouped by state or territory and the types of services they offer. Other website comparison sites also offer information about service providers. Don’t be afraid to ask your friends and other family members about their experiences and recommendations – the ‘grapevine’ can be a great source of information.

You may decide that you need a little more help to find a service provider. Another option is to get in touch with a plan manager. Your plan manager is likely to have extensive knowledge about service providers and can help advise you on which service providers are suitable for your individual situation.

Your Local Area Coordination Service may be another useful source of information. They typically help people navigate the whole NDIS process and are well placed to advise you on NDIS service providers in your area.

Know what is included in your NDIS plan and what your goals are

Firstly, make sure that you are familiar with your NDIS plan. Your plan will ultimately determine what supports you can access. So it’s important for you to understand what you are funded to receive. Take the time to go over your plan with someone you trust, and take note of any questions you might have as you go. Once you have done this you can get in touch with your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordination (LAC) service with these questions. These services are there to help you navigate the NDIS and will provide you with support as you need.

Once you are familiar with your plan, you can then start focusing on your goals and how you would like a provider to assist you achieve them. For example you may have the goal of living independently, and would like a lot of assistance in achieving this. Or you may have the goal of getting back to work and want little assistance in achieving this. It is entirely up to you!

Do your research on NDIS providers

Once you’re clear on your goals, research potential providers. There are a lot out there! Whether you want one provider to do everything, or several different providers to do a number of different things, research is important to choosing the right fit for you. There are many ways you can research providers. You can do this with assistance from your Support Coordinator or LAC. You could use the Provider Finder on your NDIS portal or a comparison website/search engine. Or you could consult with your peers on their experiences. All forms are research are valid and can help you make the best choice for you.

While researching we recommend that you develop a ‘shortlist’ of providers that you can contact, and question further on their capability to help you reach your goals.

You can then contact these shortlisted providers, and ask them anything you want to know. When you are talking to them pay attention to how you’re feeling during the conversation: do you feel supported? Do you feel like you can trust them? Do you feel confident? You want to find a provider that makes you feel and say yes to all three!

It is important to remember in this process that you are a customer. It is up to you make the best choice for yourself. While there are supports like LAC’s and Support Coordinators along the way they can only provide options for you to choose from. They cannot make the best decision for you. Only you can do that. However, if you treat the process like any other shopping process and take the time to consider what you need you are well-equipped to make the best decision for yourself.

What questions should I ask when choosing an NDIS service provider?

Some things you might think about after you have spoken with a service provider include:

• • Did I feel comfortable talking with the service provider?
  • Did they listen to my concerns and try to understand my goals and objectives?
  • Did they provide me with enough information and answer all my questions?
  • How does their organisation differ from other service providers? Do they have specific examples?
  • How experienced are their staff? Do the staff have relevant qualifications?
  • What services do they offer? Personal care? Nursing care? Help around the house such as home and garden maintenance? Help to take you out to participate in the community and to attend social activities?
  • Will the same staff help me out most of the time or will a different person show up each time?
  • If for some reason I don’t feel comfortable with one of their staff members, will I be able to request someone else?
  • How much do their services cost? How does the payment process work?
  • If I choose to leave before my service agreement ends do I have to pay cancellation costs?

Ultimately, you are the one who is buying the services offered by a provider with your NDIS funds. If you feel uncomfortable while chatting with them or you aren’t happy with the way they respond to your questions, then try another provider. It’s important that you find an NDIS service provider that is a good fit for you.

Can I change my  NDIS provider

Yes. If you are not happy or have a change in circumstances, you have the right to change your NDIS provider.

Learn more about  NDIS provider

Navigating the world of NDIS providers can be overwhelming. To simplify the process and find the perfect match for your unique needs, visit our comprehensive guide.