The Aged Care Assessment team assess the needs of older people to determine the care and services an older person may require and eligibility for Commonwealth subsidized aged care services including, residential aged care, residential respite care, support at home, Commonwealth Home Support Program and flexible care.
Gateway Health provides an independent assessment of physical, medical, psychological, environmental and social needs.
An assessment usually takes between one and two hours and may take place in your home or, if required, in hospital. The assessment location will be discussed with you in advance and will be based on your individual needs and circumstances.
We will suggest the available care that best meets your needs and develop a care plan with you. Our aim is to maximise your independence while considering your safety and comfort.
If you agree, we may refer you to other services and supply them with information so you or your family can access the service when needed.
Most people are able to stay at home with help from community services such as District Nursing, Home Help, Meals on Wheels, and social groups, respite care and/or with the assistance of a home care package.
Go to My Aged Care for more information and other Commonwealth-funded aged care services.
Access
This service is available for all older people with support needs.
Aboriginal people and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples are eligible from 50 years of age.
There is no cost for an assessment – An appointment will be made for the home visit to take place. If an Aged Care Assessment is required for someone in hospital it will be conducted in the hospital.
Referrals are allocated to Gateway Health by My Aged Care – we typically assess older people across the Alpine Shire, Benalla Rural City, Indigo Shire, Mansfield Shire, Towong Shire, Rural City of Wangaratta and City of Wodonga.
Anyone can refer an eligible person to the Aged Care Assessment Service, including doctors, nurses, relatives, and friends, or you can refer yourself.
When you are referred to our service we will contact you and your family to make an appointment to visit. An interpreter can be arranged if required.
Make a referral
All referrals for an Aged Care Assessment can be made via My Aged Care.
- Phone 1800 200 422 (Monday – Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm)
- National Relay Service – select your preferred access option and ask for 1800 200 422*
- Translating and Interpreting Service – Call 131 450, tell the operator the language you speak, and ask them to call 1800 200 422*
- Online referral – Apply for an assessment