SWEP
funded assistive technology is owned by SWEP where we have funded more than 50%
towards the cost and the item is considered 're-issuable'.
When
we are advised that a consumer no longer needs an item that is re-issuable, SWEP
arranges collection of the equipment via our contracted Repairs & Re-issue
Supplier, Chemtronics.
The
item then undergoes a 'viability assessment' to determine whether it is in good
enough condition to be reissued to another consumer.
Any
items that are considered to be in very good condition and suitable for
re-issue to another SWEP consumer are entered onto our reissue database.
AT Practitioners who are registered
with SWEP receive a log in to our Re-issue database to enable them to search for
items for their clients once they receive their SWEP AT Practitioner
Registration ID.
Once AT Practitioners identify a
suitable item, they can reserve the item and attach
the reservation number to the SWEP application.
Relevant
links to our reissue database and User Guide can be found on our website via
the link below https://swep.bhs.org.au/prescriber-reissue-database.php
You
can reserve an item in our reissue database for a period of 30 days, after
which time it automatically closes and returns the item to the available
reissue pool. It is important that you complete your application to SWEP within
a timeframe that allows for SWEP processing (10 working days) otherwise you are
at risk that your reservation will expire and the item will no longer be
available.
In
extenuating circumstances, you can extend the reservation by contacting SWEP.
Our
program is funded by the State Government and our Operational Policies mandate
that if there is a suitable reissue item available, we will not fund a new item
instead, unless there is clear clinical rationale as to why a similar reissue
item is not suitable.
Many
items available through SWEP require a co-contribution or gap payment.
Recommending reissue equipment means that there are no out-of-pocket costs for
our eligible consumers.
Our
program receives a capped budget each year and experiences high demand for
support. Applications for support are triaged based on urgency of need, however
there can be delays before consumers can be supported when new items are
requested. These delays may be related
to available budget and/or consumers being unable to fund often considerable
co-contribution costs for new items.
There
is no wait for access to reissue equipment, regardless of priority of need.
All equipment initially receives a
hospital grade clean when collected, and once identified as suitable for another
consumer, will undergo any necessary refurbishment or modifications to prepare
the item for reissue to the new consumer.
Consumers who meet the eligibility criteria for the Victorian Aids & Equipment Program.
Our
contracted supplier, Chemtronics, liaises with you to arrange delivery direct
to consumers.
For
information or support about powered wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs and
postural seating contact Sarah Casey on 9463 2809 or scasey@chemtronics.com.au
Sarah is an Occupational Therapist with
over 20 years' experience. Sarah has worked in numerous clinical settings, many
with a specific focus on wheelchair and postural seating. Sarah can assist with
specific equipment information and also support AT Practitioners in the
clinical decision making around prescription for more complex equipment.
For
any information or support regarding any other reissue equipment, contact Tim
Belleville on 9463 2804 or tim.belleville@chemtronics.com.au
Tim is a Rehabilitation Technician with
over 28 years' experience in the industry and a wealth of knowledge regarding
assistive technology and its functionality.
Both
Sarah and Tim are located at our Reissue warehouse in Thomastown and are
available to support matching items for your clients.
Regards
SWEP
Management Team
