This is one of the most common questions participants ask. If you are using Plan Management, the short answer is usually yes, but there are still some important rules to understand.
The NDIS says that participants who self-manage or have a plan manager can use registered or unregistered providers. If your funding is NDIA-managed, you can only use registered providers for those supports.
When non-registered providers can be used
Plan-managed participants often choose non-registered providers because it gives them more choice. That can be useful when you have found someone who is the right fit, especially in local areas where availability can vary.
The NDIS also says that when your plan is plan-managed or NDIA-managed, providers must still follow NDIS pricing arrangements and price limits.
When they cannot be used
If a support is NDIA-managed, an unregistered provider cannot deliver that support. This is especially important if your plan uses a mix of management types. Always check which part of your plan is managed in which way before you start a service.
What to check before you start
Even when unregistered providers are allowed, it is still smart to check experience, qualifications, insurance, worker screening and service agreements.
The NDIS says support coordinators can help participants understand when they must use registered providers and when they can choose unregistered providers. That is one reason Support Coordination can be helpful when you are setting up services.
For clear answers about providers, invoices and funding management, contact Taylor Made Outcomes.
Official NDIS source: What is a provider?
