Continence Program Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Continence Program?
The Continence Aids Program is funded by the Department of Health and
Human Services. This program provides people with a permanent or long-term
disability, as well as those who are frail aged with funding towards the cost
of continence products.
What types of continence items does the Continence Aids Program help to fund?
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Anal plugs
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Anal irrigation systems
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Catheters(long term and intermittent)
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Catheter drainage tubing, connectors, straps and valves
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Condom drainage systems
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Drainage bags
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Drainage bottles and connectors
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Intra vaginal bladder supports
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Washable bedding and chair pads
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Washable briefs and pads
Please note: All washable products are funded as a one-off order only (in exceptional circumstances additional items may be supplied where a recommendation is received from a SWEP registered practitioner who can provide clinical justification for the need for additional washable items).
SWEP will not fund disposable pants or pads, drip collectors, colostomy appliances or urinals.
Please see catalogue for a complete list of fundable items.
What will it cost?
There is a maximum annual subsidy level for continence products. Supply is based on consumer need, recommended by a Continence Practitioner. A maximum subsidy level of up to $1200 applies over a twelve-month period to eligible consumers. If the subsidy does not cover the full cost of the continence products, you or a third party will need to pay the remainder.
Am I eligible?
You are eligible for funding if you:
- Are a permanent Victorian Resident or hold a temporary or permanent protection Visa or are an asylum seeker
- Have a long-term disability and/or are frail aged
- Are not an in-patient of a public or private hospital or permanent residential care facility
- Cannot claim continence products through your private health insurance policy
- Have not been released from hospital or an extended care centre within 30 days, where continence products required is related to the hospital admission
How do I apply for the program?
You
will need to be assessed by a registered Continence Practitioner. Your Practitioner will complete an online application form based on your needs and submit it on your behalf.
Where can I access a Continence AT Practitioner?
Continence Practitioners near you can be found by talking to your local health care professional (general practitioner) or by accessing the link to the Continence Foundation of Australia: http://www.continence.org.au
What happens after my application is submitted?
An administration officer will process and triage your application.
Once your application is processed, a letter will be sent to you informing you of the status of your application. If you do not receive a letter within two weeks, please contact your Continence Practitioner or SWEP on 1300 PH SWEP (1300 747 937) (Option 2).
If the subsidy does not cover the full cost of the continence products, a gap funding form will be sent to you to complete. This form will inform SWEP as to how the remainder of the cost is to be paid.
When funding is available, SWEP will call you to confirm your ongoing need for the continence products and then place an order.
Will I need to reapply when I need more continence items?
SWEP will continue to supply continence products in an ongoing manner after the first occurrence of supply (excluding washable products).
Phone orders can be placed with SWEP when you require your next supply of products.
Please note, continence applications are required to be reviewed every two years by a SWEP registered practitioner.
Are there other programs that can help me with my continence needs?
The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) may be able to assist you.
To find out if this applies to you, please access the link to Continence Aids Payment Scheme: http://bladderbowel.gov.au
or contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066 who can assist you with information.
Can I receive assistance through SWEP if I currently receive the Commonwealth Government's Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS)?
Yes, if you are receiving assistance from the CAPS program you can still be assisted through SWEP's Continence Aids Program.
What if I am a NDIS Participant?
Please visit the SLA website here or phone 1800 995 009
Quicklink?
