Introducing PACE: A New Billing System by NDIA
The NDIA is set to enhance the way participants and providers interact with the implementation of their new billing system, known as PACE. This new system is designed to make life easier for both parties, offering clarity, control, and flexibility that were previously unavailable. Here’s what you need to know about PACE and how it could impact you as a participant.
Easier to Understand Plans
One of the core benefits of the PACE system is the simplification of plan documents. These plans are structured to be more intuitive and easier to read, ensuring that participants can better understand and manage their own care with minimal confusion.
PACE is all about empowering you. As a participant, you will have increased control over your plan and the services you receive. This empowerment comes from your ability to provide consent for your chosen providers to view certain parts of your NDIS details within PACE. Depending on what you’re comfortable with, this could be as simple as your contact details and plan dates or as comprehensive as your detailed NDIS goals.
The introduction of PACE will streamline interactions between you and your providers. By allowing selective access to your NDIS details, PACE reduces bureaucratic overhead and simplifies communication, making it quicker and more efficient for both parties.
No Change to Your Funding
It’s important to note that the transition to a PACE plan will not affect the level of funding you receive. However, how this funding is structured within your plan offers greater flexibility. For instance, instead of specifying funding for specific therapies such as speech therapy, PACE categorises funding under broader outcomes like "improved daily living." This allows a more flexible approach to utilising your total budget to best suit your needs.
A significant change under PACE is the removal of service bookings. This means providers do not pre-allocate funding for future support. As a result, you can change your mind about your services without administrative hassles, allowing you to adapt your support as your needs evolve.
New Support Type: Recurring
PACE introduces a new support type called "recurring," adding to the existing types—core, capacity building, and capital. This addition aims to provide more tailored support options that can adapt over time to meet continuous or changing needs.
Transition to PACE
Existing plans will remain unchanged until they are up for renewal, review, or rollover. At that point, they may transition to reflect the new PACE structure. This ensures a smooth transition for current participants, with no abrupt changes to their planning and support.