CHSP Contribution Policy

Avanti Health Centre 

CHSP Client Contribution Policy 

1. Purpose 

The purpose of this policy is to provide transparency around client contributions for their Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). Avanti, as a provider of CHSP services, is to ensure that those who can afford to contribute to the cost of their services are able to do so, while protecting those most vulnerable. 

The objectives of the policy are to: 

• Move towards a consistent approach in client contributions. 

• Improve the sustainability of CHSP services. 

• Provide appropriate safeguards for financially disadvantaged clients. 

2. Scope 

The scope of this policy is aimed towards Avanti Health Centre clients who receive our CHSP services. 

3. Compliance 

As a provider of CHSP services, Avanti is required to have a documented and available contribution policy that aligns to the National Guide to the CHSP Client Contribution Framework. This policy is available for all staff and clients associated with CHSP. 

4. Policy principles 

Client contribution policies for the provision of CHSP services should incorporate the principles below: 

5. Consistency 

The Australian Government subsidises the CHSP. It is a requirement that all clients, who can afford to, contribute to the cost of their services. 

6. Sustainability 

As the CHSP is subsidised, Avanti is required to advertise and seek a contribution from clients. This ensures that the program is financially sustainable. 

The revenue that is received from client contributions is utilised to support the ongoing service delivery. It allows Avanti to expand the client services that we are funded to deliver. 

Fairness 

The policy will consider the following when discussing contributions/co-payments to client service delivery. 

Financial hardship 

There will be times when clients are unable to contribute to their service delivery and they will not be disadvantaged if they are unable to afford the service. 

If unable to contribute to their service delivery, clients and staff can access the CHSP Financial Hardship Procedure to work through their capacity to contribute. If a client is approved for a reduction or waiver in their contribution, the decision will be reviewed on an annual basis - in line with the care plan and service agreement. 

7. Reporting 

It is a requirement for Uniting to report the dollar amount collected from client contributions received for CHSP services. 

8. Other considerations 

Client contribution changes 

Avanti’s client contributions are reviewed annually. The client contribution is reviewed within the National Guide to the CHSP Client Contribution Framework. This allows Avanti to ensure that the ‘reasonable’ client contribution that is set falls in line with the national standards. 

If there is a change in client contributions, Avanti will notify the client in writing and provide a minimum of 4 weeks’ notice of the changes. Staff will speak with clients regarding the changes and utilise the CHSP Financial Hardship Procedure and the Financial Hardship Application form if indicated. 

Non-payment of client contribution 

If a client fails to make payments, it is important for our staff to reach out to them. Staff will consider the following when speaking with clients: 

• Understand their rationale for underpayment – is there an acute financial hardship taking place for the client? 

• Discuss mutually agreed options for clients to get on top of their missed payments. This could be in the form of payment plans. 

• If required, reassess their client contribution with the CHSP Financial Hardship Procedure – determine whether there has been a fundamental shift in the client’s ability to contribute, and then a financial hardship application may need to be placed.  

The application must include reasons and supporting evidence of financial hardship with the request. In order to evidence the request Avanti may ask for evidence of financial resources and commitments including sources of income and expenses and whether the client has a responsibility to support another person. Avanti will collect this information on a CHSP Hardship Request Form. This information will remain confidential. 

Fees will be reduced for a period of time where: 

• the removal of the service due to incapacity to pay would impact on the achievement of a wellness outcome 

• The client has significant additional essential costs which affect their capacity to the prescribed contribution fee e.g. medication, special food, specialist medical services or equipment.