How do I apply for an assessment?
An assessment with the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) is the gateway to accessing government subsidised aged care services. Whether it be for care at home or residential aged care.
An ACAT assessment provides you and possible aged care providers with a clearer understanding of what services would provide the most support for you.
Organising an assessment is a quick and easy process. You can organise an assessment online through the My Aged Care portal. Or you can give the My Aged Care contact centre a ring on 1800 200 422. This can be particularly handy if you would like to talk with staff further about your needs.
What do I need to organise an ACAT Assessment?
You do not need a lot to organise an ACAT assessment. Nor do you need to prepare.
You just need a little bit of time, and your Medicare card. Make sure you have at least 10 minutes to complete the required details and organise an assessment.
Can anyone help me to organise an ACAT Assessment?
Your family members, friends or carers can help you to organise an assessment, whether you are applying online or via the phone. If they have your consent, they can even complete the application form on your behalf.
If you want to have a someone speak and act on your behalf throughout the application, you can appoint them as your representative with My Aged Care. This allows the My Aged Care team to talk directly to them. You can set this up at the same time as organising the assessment.
Is it an in-person assessment? Or can I complete it online or over the phone?
You can apply for an assessment online or over the phone, where you will do an initial eligibility check. Then, you will be notified if you are eligible for an assessment. The assessments are done in person by an assessor, at your own home.
Other support available to you for an ACAT Assessment
The government provides a range of options if you require extra support organising an assessment.
The National Relay Service is available if you have a hearing or speech impairment.
If you would like to communicate in a language other than English, the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) is available to help.
If you require an advocate to support you through the process, you can access one through the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN).
In Western Australia you can also contact Advocare if you feel you require extra support or someone to advocate on your behalf.
To understand what an ACAT assessment is and whether you require a regional assessment service, read our article here.
