Top 7 Tips for Your First NDIS Meeting

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or NDIS is a significant reform to disability support in Australia. The NDIS provides its participants with the reasonable and necessary support they need to live the life they desire.

If you are a new NDIS participant or are considering applying for the scheme, you may wonder what to expect from your first NDIS meeting. 

Receiving the NDIS plan enables the participants to avail services from the best disability support workers and get all the necessary help that ushers them towards their goals. However, before the NDIA curates a plan, they conduct a meeting to understand the needs and goals of the participant.

With this article, we are presenting tips to help applicants make the most of the meeting and get the best NDIS Plan for themselves-

What Is an NDIS Planning Meeting?

The NDIS planning meeting with an NDIS representative usually takes place over the phone. Your immediate needs and goals will be the subject of questions from the meeting’s planner.

You should be ready to answer the questions and discuss your support objectives and aspirations, existing support services, the service providers you have used, and much more. Most planning sessions last one to two hours.

Tips for Your First NDIS Meeting

As you know that the NDIS planning meeting is a crucial stage in determining your plan, you must attend the meeting with some preparation. Here are a few of the tips that will help you prepare so that you can get the best NDIS plan for yourself.

Know Your Requirements

Before your meeting, it is important to take some time to think about what kind of support you need and what kind of life you want to achieve. It will help you communicate your needs and goals to your NDIS planner and ensure that your plan’s support meets your specific requirements.

Think about your needs and also determine the plan management strategy. Remember that if you choose self or agency-managed, you must work alongside NDIS-registered providers. However, if you choose plan managers, you can work with Melbourne’s trusted NDIS providers regardless of whether they are registered. 

Remember that the NDIS plan covers you for the following twelve months. Therefore, you don’t have to complete everything at once. Since most NDIS participants participate for life, there is plenty of time to start planning to realise your long-term objectives.

In your initial planning meeting, have a journal or note about the hurdles you face daily to get the kind of support you desire from the NDIS. You may journal, take pictures, or make a list.

Ask Lots of Questions

The goal of your NDIS planner is to help you achieve the goals and attain a certain level of independence. Therefore if there is anything you don’t understand or want clarification on, ask questions. Exploring options like supported independent living Gold Coast can provide you with the assistance you need while maintaining your independence. Understanding the available support services will help you make informed decisions about your care and lifestyle.

There is no such thing as a silly question regarding getting the most out of your NDIS Plan. The NDIS planners look forward to answering your queries so they can deliver the best services and never shy on questions.

Take Your Time

The decisions you make during your first NDIS meeting will significantly impact the kind of support and services you receive, so it is important not to feel pressured into making any rushed decisions.

If you think you cannot instantly make a decision and need more time to think about something, let your planner know. They will be happy to provide additional information or resources so that you can make an informed decision. 

Complete the Paperwork

It is essential to do some preparation beforehand to make the most of your first NDIS meeting. Gather your documentation before your first meeting so you can use your planner to streamline the process. It will make it easier for you to introduce yourself and your needs.

To ensure you have all you need when you need it, try to gather all your medical, educational, and health records and place them in one location.

Scan the NDIS Terminology

There is a vast array of NDIS terminology; therefore, it’s a good idea to start familiarising yourself with it. You will be better able to comprehend the information the NDIS is providing as a result.

You can find the NDIS glossary on their website. A glance can help you understand the planner better though you can always interrupt them to ask questions. 

Be Open to Your Needs

No compulsion says that you must accept the initial plan. You can talk to your planner if the plan devised for you doesn’t seem proper or doesn’t appear to cover fair and required charges.

Bring a Reliable Company

It is always best to bring a friend, carer or family member with you to provide moral support and offer a second pair of ears. This person can also take notes during the meeting so that you can focus. If you do not have anyone who can come with you, try recording the discussion on your phone so you can listen back later. 

In a Nutshell

Your first NDIS meeting can be daunting. However, it doesn’t have to be. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you prepare yourself and are ready to make the most of this opportunity and get the support and services you need from the NDIS plan.

If you require assistance regarding any aspect of NDIS, contact My Link Assist, a compassionate and enthusiastic NDIS registered provider ready to serve you. 

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