Even though amputation is usually considered a severe physical disability, it can be managed, thanks to NDIS funding. As such, getting NDIS help for an amputated patient is quite necessary because of its impact on the patient’s life. Do you need to access the NDIS funding for an amputated patient? Here you go!
What Is Amputation?
Amputation is a surgical procedure that involves the deliberate removal of a part or the entire limb, mostly due to disease, injury, congenital conditions, or other medical reasons. It is performed to prevent the spread of disease, address irreparable damage, or alleviate pain. There are different levels of amputations, depending on the cause and the severity of the condition to be addressed. These levels include;
- Below-the-knee (transtibial)
- Above-the-knee (transfemoral)
- Below-the-Elbow (transradial)
- Above-the-Elbow (transhumeral)
Causes Of Amputation
Amputation is the last option medically to help the patient’s health status. It can be caused by the following;
- Injuries: Accidents and severe injuries that result in irreparable damage to a limb mostly necessitate amputation.
- Disease: Medical conditions like cancer, vascular diseases, or infections can lead to tissue damage that will require the surgical removal of limb(s).
- Complications: There are special cases where there are complications from injuries in previous surgeries that may lead to compulsory amputation.
- Congenital Conditions: Some children are born with limb abnormalities, and in situations like that, amputation is considered due to medical or functional reasons.
Challenges Amputees Face
From mobility limits to employment barriers, amputees face a significant amount of challenges. Below are some of them
- Employment barriers
- Physical mobility limits
- Emotional and mental adjustment
- Financial stress
- Prosthetic comfort
- Intense pain
- Social stigma
- Dependence on other people
- Weather sensitivity
- Skin irritation
- Chronic fatigue
Determining Eligibility Status For NDIS Funding For Amputation
Before anyone can access the NDIS funding, they must have met some requirements. The criteria are listed below;
- Age: Applicants must be between the ages of 9 and 65 when they apply for NDIS funding.
- Residency Status: Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents or holders of Protected Special Category visas.
- Disability: The applicant must have a permanent disability that significantly affects their ability and daily activities
- Early Intervention: If the applicant is a child under 7, they must be diagnosed with a developmental delay or disability to be considered eligible for the NDIS early intervention support.
Amputees will be found eligible due to the disability resulting from their condition because the impact challenges their daily lives. However, it is essential to engage with the NDIS through an access request form and assessment process.
Services Available For Patients Under NDIS Amputation Funding
Under the NDIS funding for amputation, there are several available supports and services to help them live a better and more fulfilling life. They include, but are not limited to;
- Prosthetics and Orthotics: Funds for the assessment, provision and maintenance of orthotic devices and prosthetic limbs are provided to them. This is done to enhance mobility and function.
- Mobility Aids: Patients get mobility scooters, wheelchairs and other mobility aids to assist them with moving around and getting easier access to their desired location.
- Therapies: They get access to physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and other required therapies to improve their coordination and strength.
- Assistive Technology: Provision is made for assistive devices to help them in their daily activities.
- Support Workers: Support workers help amputated individuals in their daily personal care and other personal support they may need.
- Transportation: Transport support is provided to ensure the easy mobility of individuals to their medical appointments, community and other places they need to get to.
- Psychological and Counseling Services: They get access to mental health services to further support their mental and emotional well-being after amputation.
- Community Participation: Funding for programs that promote social inclusion and skill development is made available to help their mental well-being further so their condition will not affect their daily lives.
- Specialised Equipment: They get assistance acquiring specialised equipment to facilitate further independence.
- Modifications: Funds are provided for essential modifications in the home to allow easy movement, accessibility and greater independence.
It is important to mention that amputees may get different support and services. The services made available to them are according to their NDIS plan and the severity of their condition. Support is tailored to suit the individual’s unique situations and circumstances.
How To Access NDIS Funding For Amputation
To get access to the NDIS funding for amputation, follow the steps written below:
- Eligibility Status: Before you can access the NDIS funding, the individual must meet the requirements that will deem you eligible.
- Access Request Form: Get an access request form from the NDIS website. Fill it out and submit it. Submission can be done in person, via mail or online. For more information on the access request form, you can contact the NDIS directly.
- Assessment: The patient must undergo an assessment by an NDIS planner. Also, relevant medical reports, including the amputation and its impact on the patient’s daily life, will be submitted for review.
- Planning Meeting: The patient will need to attend a planning meeting with an NDIS representative to discuss the individual’s unique goals, needs, and support they need. Once the plan is approved, it will show the support and services the NDIS will be funding.
- Implementation: After the approval comes the implementation. The patient can utilise all the services and supports made available according to the plan.
Also, the plan can be reviewed and adjusted if the need arises to fit the patient’s current needs. If there is a need for adjustment, request a plan adjustment from the necessary representatives.
Conclusion
Getting the NDIS funding for an amputated patient is probably one of the best things you can do for them. Amputation is a significant medical intervention that is irreversible. Although the decision was made for the patient’s overall well-being, it affects them significantly. So, getting them aid is paramount, and the NDIS is more willing to support them. Contact us here to guide you through the process of accessing NDIS funding.