September 29, 2024
Team Umps
The NDIS operates by providing financial support for a wide range of services and devices aimed at improving quality of life. For personal safety, this includes assistive technologies such as personal alarms, which are small, wearable devices that allow users to call for help in emergencies. However, the NDIS isn’t limited to just personal alarms; it covers several areas, including:
NDIS funding is split into three broad categories, each designed to cover different types of support. Understanding which category your needs fall under can help you navigate your plan more effectively:
A personal alarm typically falls under the Core support budget. They assist in maintaining independence by providing a quick and reliable way to call for help during emergencies, making them an essential part of daily living support.
To be eligible for NDIS funding, including a personal duress alarm, you must meet the following criteria:
If you meet these requirements, you can work with your support coordinator or local area coordinator to include a personal alarm device in your NDIS plan. Many NDIS participants include personal alarms in their plans under Core Supports, as they provide peace of mind and help reduce the risk of harm during emergencies.
Applying for a personal alarm through your NDIS plan is a simple process. Follow these steps to access the safety and peace of mind you deserve:
Do I need a specialised AT assessment for personal alarms?
Personal alarms are designed to be easily accessible for NDIS participants without the need for a specialized Assistive Technology (AT) assessment. This is because they are classified as low-cost, low-risk assistive technology devices that fall under the Core Supports budget category. Let's explore the reasons why:
There are three ways to manage your NDIS funding:
Your plan management method may impact how you purchase a personal alarm. For example, if you're self-managing, you can purchase your alarm directly and then claim reimbursement through the NDIS portal. If you're plan-managed or NDIS-managed, your Plan Manager or the NDIA will pay directly on your behalf.
It's important to discuss your plan management options with your support coordinator or local area coordinator to determine which method best suits your needs and preferences.
While the NDIS doesn't provide personal alarms entirely for free, it does allow participants to use their funding to cover the cost of the device. This means you won’t have to pay out-of-pocket for this vital safety tool, as long as it's included in your NDIS plan.
Remember, the NDIS is designed to support you in achieving your goals and living your best life. By working closely with your support coordinator, local area coordinator, and trusted providers like Umps, you can access the assistive technology and support you need to thrive.
Family-monitored alarms are programmed to send alerts to designated family members or caregivers when activated. This can be a good option if you have a reliable support network nearby that can respond quickly in an emergency. However, it's important to ensure that your family members or caregivers are prepared and able to handle emergencies effectively.
A professionally monitored alarm, like those offered by Umps, connects you to a 24/7 emergency response centre staffed by trained professionals who can assess your situation and dispatch emergency services when necessary. This option ensures that help is always available, even if family or caregivers are unavailable.
Umps is a provider of personal alarms supported under the NDIS offering a reliable, high-quality solution for NDIS participants. The Umps Link features:
If you're using your NDIS funding to purchase an Umps Link personal alarm, simply request an invoice from the Umps team. We will provide the necessary documentation for your Plan Manager or the NDIA to process the payment, making it easy for you to access this essential safety device.
[1] https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis
[2] https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/creating-your-plan/plan-budget-and-rules
[3] https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying-access-ndis/am-i-eligible
[4] https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/providing-assistive-technology
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