Plan Management & Support Coordination… what’s the difference?
Ever been confused about the different roles and responsibilities of plan managers and support coordinators? You’re not alone.
On the surface, both plan managers and support coordinators provide essential services to NDIS participants by helping navigate their NDIS plan and plan funding, access supports, and help participants to have more choice and control throughout their NDIS journey. However, by digging a little deeper, it’s clear that plan managers and support coordinator serve distinct purposes and provide different levels of support.
Plan Management vs. Support Coordination
Simply put, plan management involves the financial management of a participant's NDIS funding, ensuring that payments to providers are made correctly and in accordance with NDIS guidelines. Whereas support coordination focuses on helping participants navigate the NDIS system, identify their goals, and needs, and connect them with appropriate supports and services.
What are the key differences between Plan Management & Support Coordination?
The main difference between plan management and support coordination are their core responsibilities.
How to access plan management or support coordination
Participants should consider their ability to manage finances, knowledge of available support services, and the complexity of their goals when making the decision to request plan management, support coordination, or a combination of both be included in their NDIS plan. Ultimately, whatever decision is made, the participant will need to discuss their plan management or support coordination needs with their Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIA representative during the initial plan meeting or plan reassessment.
Except in extreme circumstances, all participants are eligible to access plan management as part of their NDIS plan. However, eligibility for support coordination is determined on a case-by-case basis by the NDIA when developing an NDIS plan. This is why it is so important for participants to bring supporting evidence to their plan meeting or plan reassessment
At the end of the day, trusted plan managers (like us!) and support coordinators aim to help participants make informed choices so they can thrive throughout their NDIS journey.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Remember, your goals are our priority, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. If you ever need assistance, clarification, or simply want to discuss your NDIS plan, don't hesitate to reach out. Our friendly team can be contacted on 1300 890 457 or support@inchoice.com.au.