In February 2019, SWEP released a
communique advising that due to increased demand on the Lymphoedema Compression
Garment Program (LCGP) we would need to waitlist applications for funding. At that
time we also advised that we would send gap confirmation forms to consumers
prior to placing them on the waitlist or raising an order.
A further review of our processes has
now been undertaken following extensive feedback received from AT
Practitioners. Effective immediately we will no longer be using or sending out
gap forms for these applications. Those consumers who have already received a gap
form will be notified of this change (along with their Practitioner), with
their application transitioning straight to the waitlist.
Our understanding is that AT Practitioners
are discussing the need for gap payments directly with their patients and we
would ask that this continue, to assist consumers in having these funds
available, when SWEP is ready to commit funds and raise an order. Where consumers indicate that they have
Private Health Insurance, SWEP will make contact with their insurance provider to
confirm the amount available under their policy towards their garments.
The LCGP has a separate quarantined budget,
to other programs managed by SWEP. We
have a budget and demand strategy in place whereby we allocate funds for
consumers, using the Priority of Access Guidelines to triage applications. This budget and demand strategy allocates a
percentage of funding each month to highest priority applications and a
percentage to oldest applications on the waitlist.
Please find attached link to the LCGP
program guidelines for your reference: https://swep.bhs.org.au/lymphoedema-compression-garment-program.php
SWEP are planning a seminar for
Lymphoedema AT Practitioners (in conjunction with our Clinical Advisors) in the
near future and will confirm these details with you in due course.
If you have any queries or feedback
in relation to this change please contact Sue Vincent by email at: sue.vincent@bhs.org.au
.
Kind Regards and Thanks
Sue Vincent
SWEP Manager