We have been contacted by several families who have been surprised by a recent check-in from the NDIS and the outcome that followed. In some cases, people have reported that after what they understood to be a routine check-in, plans were subsequently reviewed, changed or reassessed.
What is an NDIS check-in, and what should you know about the process?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) uses check-ins to discuss how a participant’s plan is working and whether their supports continue to meet their needs. It is also an opportunity for the NDIS to assess whether current supports continue to meet the requirements of the updated legislation and funding rules.
Many participants understand a check-in to be an informal discussion about how their supports are working and whether they are making progress towards their goals. However, these conversations can sometimes become much more significant than expected. The NDIS may start creating the new draft plan based on the information discussed in this check-in.
Of particular concern is that a check-in call may be introduced as an opportunity to discuss how things are going, yet information gathered during the conversation can contribute to decisions about a participant’s plan during the check-in itself. When this occurs, participants and families may have little or no opportunity to prepare for a discussion that could affect their funding, supports, or future planning arrangements.
Without prior notice that a plan review or reassessment may be considered, participants may not have sufficient time to obtain updated reports, gather supporting evidence from therapists and allied health professionals, or seek advice regarding their circumstances. This can leave people feeling unprepared to fully explain the participant’s needs, progress, challenges, and support requirements.
When can a check-in occur?
A check-in can occur at any time, although the NDIS advises that these conversations commonly take place 2 to 3 months before a plan is due to end. Participants should also be aware that check-ins can occur anytime during an extended plan period.
Even if you have received confirmation that your plan has been extended for a further 12 months, this does not necessarily mean that your supports or funding cannot be reviewed during that time. Participants should be aware that a check-in may occur at any stage throughout the extension period.
A check-in can also be triggered if the NDIS notices that funding is being used much faster or much slower than expected.
What to do if NDIS calls for a check-in?
It is important to remember that it is acceptable to ask questions about the purpose of a check-in and to request a later appointment if you need time to gather information, obtain updated reports, or arrange for a support person to participate in the discussion. Being prepared can help to provide a more complete picture of current needs and circumstances.
You may also wish to ask
- What is the purpose of the check-in?
- Will this discussion be used to inform any plan review, reassessment or variation?
- What information or documents would be helpful for me to provide?
- Can I have a support person, advocate, support coordinator or family member present?
- Could we please schedule a time in the coming weeks so I can prepare properly?
If a request for additional time to prepare is ignored, you may wish to raise your concerns with the NDIS or seek advice regarding the complaints process.
Don’t ignore the call
The NDIS generally does not change a plan simply because you didn’t answer a phone call. However, if they can’t reach you and they are trying to progress a review or reassessment, they may proceed using the information they already have.
If you have been contacted for a check-in and feel you have not been given adequate time to prepare, or if you are concerned about how the process has been conducted, please contact us and share your experience with us via phone 03 9486 9600 or email info@dsav.asn.au.
You can read Down Syndrome Australia’s response to the NDIS reforms on their website.