Here are the answers to some of the common questions we’re asked about NDIS registration
1. What is an NDIS provider?
Service providers are individuals, businesses or organisations that deliver the services funded in your NDIS Plan.
There are many different types of providers. Some are large companies, others are small, family-run businesses or sole traders. Some have very firm structures and policies while others are more flexible and willing to adapt their services to your needs.
2. What’s the difference between registered and non-registered providers?
NDIS registered providers are service providers that have met strict government quality and safety standards to achieve NDIS registration with the NDIS Commission. The system is slightly different in WA where an individual or organisation can apply to be a Registered Provider of Supports (RPoS) with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
NDIS registration is an endorsement that gives you confidence in the provider. You know they’ve been independently assessed and that their service standards are high.
Non-registered providers may be equally good – but their standards have not been vetted by the NDIS.
3. Can I only use registered providers?
That depends how you’ve chosen to manage your NDIS funding.
If you’re managing the money yourself or have a Plan Manager, you can choose any provider. It’s up to you whether you pick a registered or non-registered provider. Non-registered providers will send their invoices directly to you or your Plan Manager since they can’t be paid directly by the NDIS (you’ll claim the money back later).
If your NDIS funding is managed by the NDIA on your behalf, then you can only choose registered providers. You can find a list of registered providers in your state here.
It can be difficult if you already have a non-registered provider you like and trust but now you have an NDIS Plan that’s managed by the NDIA. If you’re keen to keep your current non-registered provider, then the best way forward is to encourage them to become a registered provider.
4. Are non-registered providers less qualified?
Not necessarily. They may be just as qualified, dedicated and caring as a registered provider. Perhaps they simply didn’t have the spare time, money and capacity to go through the NDIS registration process. Many smaller organisations don’t.
Non-registered providers may already meet or exceed NDIS quality and safety requirements. But they don’t have to. That’s the big difference. The NDIS doesn’t audit them or assess their competence. You don’t know how good non-registered providers are until you try them for yourself.
5. What are the benefits of using non-registered providers?
The biggest benefit of using non-registered providers is that you can access a much bigger network. You’ve got far more choice of who provides your services. You may benefit from more continuity too since you can keep using your existing providers, even if they’re not registered.
6. What are the benefits of using registered providers?
You know a registered provider meets the NDIS’s quality and safety standards, meaning you start off with greater confidence in their services.
Registered providers can also provide plan management services. Unregistered providers can’t.
Plan managers help you get the most out of your NDIS funding and take care of the admin aspects like paying invoices and reporting to the NDIS on how the money has been spent.
If you’d like a plan manager, then you need to ask for one during your NDIS planning meeting. If you’re part-way through your Plan and would like to add in funding for a plan manager, then call the NDIS on 1800 800 110.
7. Is Focused Health Care a registered provider?
Yes. Focused Health Care is a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider, meaning we meet government safety and quality standards for providing services to people with a disability.
We provide plan management, support coordination, core support, and a number of ongoing support services for NDIS participants.
If your plan is managed by Focused Health Care, you can choose registered or non-registered service providers. We’ll take care of paying non-registered providers for you.
If you’re interested in our NDIS services, please contact us to talk about your needs.
Disclaimer
All information is general in nature. Consider your own personal circumstances and seek a second opinion if required.
