Four Easy Steps to the Single Assessment Services System
The Assessment Process
The Single Assessment System is designed to make it easier for older Australians to access the care and support they need. Rather than navigating multiple services and assessments, the process follows a clear, consistent pathway that focuses on the individual, their goals and their circumstances. These four steps guide people from their first contact through to accessing the right services at the right time.
1. Initial Contact:
Individuals or their families contact My Aged Care, the single entry point for government-funded aged care services, via phone or the My Aged Care website.
2. Triage:
A triage process (sometimes involving a Triage Delegate) determines the urgency and complexity of the needs.
3. Face-to-Face Assessment:
A trained assessor visits the individual (at home or in a hospital) to discuss their health, daily activities, and support needs.
4. Outcome and Care Plan:
Following the assessment, the individual receives a Notice of Decision letter outlining the approved services and funding eligibility, and a personalised care plan is developed.
For more detailed information, the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care website provides comprehensive resources.
Key Features of the SAS Model
- Unified Pathway: The SAS replaces the previous fragmented systems, including the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) and Aged Care Assessment Teams (ACATs). A single assessment can determine eligibility for a wide range of services, from home care to residential care.
- Single Workforce: A single, trained workforce of assessors conducts all aged care needs assessments across designated geographical areas in Australia. This ensures continuity of care, as the same organisation may continue to work with an individual as their needs change.
- Standardised Tools: The system uses a standardised process and specific tools to ensure consistent and fair assessment outcomes.
- Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT): Used from July 1, 2024, this tool assesses eligibility for all government-subsidised aged care services.
- Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC) Assessment Tool: This tool is used to determine a resident's funding classification for residential aged care homes.
- Person-Centred Care: The assessment focuses on a person's physical health, cognitive function, social support, and personal preferences to develop a holistic and individualised care plan.
- Simplified Access: The goal is to reduce confusion, eliminate the need for multiple assessments, and shorten wait times for necessary support.
