As aged care clients strive to maintain independence and safety in their own homes, access to the right equipment and assistive technologies is vital. Two key funding programs—GEAT2Go and EnableNSW—provide crucial support for accessing these resources, but they serve different purposes, especially for clients with Home Care Packages (HCP).
What is GEAT2Go?
GEAT2Go (Goods, Equipment, and Assistive Technology) is a fast-tracked funding program under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) that supports older Australians who require low-cost assistive equipment to improve daily living activities. It is particularly useful for clients needing basic aids such as shower chairs, grab rails, or mobility aids, and is designed for quick access to essential items.
Key Features of GEAT2GO:
- Aimed at clients eligible for CHSP who need basic assistive technology.
- Provides funding for low-risk, low-cost items (typically under $1,000).
- Intended for quick approval, reducing wait times for urgent equipment needs.
- Items must be prescribed by a qualified allied health professional.
What is EnableNSW?
Enable NSW provides assistive technology and equipment for people with long-term disabilities or health conditions, including aged care clients. It covers more complex, high-cost items like wheelchairs, hoists, and customised equipment, which may not be covered under GEAT2Go.
Key Features of EnableNSW:
- Supports clients with long-term disabilities or health conditions, including aged care clients.
- Provides funding for more complex and higher-cost assistive technology.
- Covers items that range from mobility aids to adjustable beds and hoists.
- Requires assessments and prescriptions by specialists or allied health professionals.
For previous HCP clients and current Support at Home Participants:
Previously for HCP recipients, EnableNSW offers a discretionary pathway called Consideration of Exceptional Circumstances (COEC). This allows HCP recipients to access urgent equipment if their HCP funds are exhausted, or if they are waiting for a higher-level package. The goal is to ensure safety at home during periods when there are funding delays or insufficient funds to meet critical needs. Equipment provided under this program is typically loaned and must be returned when the client’s HCP resumes coverage.
For Support at Home program participants, they cannot receive duplicate equipment or funding through EnableNSW if they are already eligible for or receiving assistive technology through Commonwealth aged care schemes for that same health need. EnableNSW rules state that applicants must not be eligible to receive identical support through other government-funded programs
Comparing GEAT2Go and EnableNSW
How Super Rehab Can Help
At Super Rehab, we understand the challenges that aged care providers and their clients face when navigating funding options for assistive technology. Our experienced allied health professionals are here to guide clients through the process of securing essential equipment, whether it’s accessing fast-tracked items through GEAT2Go or applying for more comprehensive support via Enable NSW. If you’d like to discuss further, reach out to our Customer Service Team at info@superrehab.com.au or 0490 057 622.
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