Guide to consumer directed care
Imagine having the power to design your own care journey, choosing the services that best suit you and having the freedom to decide how and when they are delivered. In comes the concept of consumer-directed care. This innovative approach is transforming healthcare, putting control back into the hands of those who need it most.
Consumer-directed care (CDC) empowers individuals to dictate their own healthcare and social services. The consumer has full control over the services they receive and how they are delivered, as well as all the resources to make informed decisions. This approach prioritises consumer autonomy when shaping their own care experience.
When we provide care for our participants, we determine how much control they want over their own care plans. Some people prefer to take the reins and make their own decisions, while others may choose to collaborate with their health professionals, offering input and guidance. This choice should always be yours. But how much control can you have and how do we define consumer-directed care?
What is consumer-directed care?
Consumer-directed care, also known as self-directed care or person-directed care, is an approach to healthcare and social services that enables the consumer to dictate their own care. In this model, the person receiving care, often referred to as the consumer, has full control and decision making authority over the services they receive and how those services are delivered.
Instead of having services dictated to them by providers, or even collaborating with healthcare professionals on what treatment is best (as with person-centred care) you, the consumer has full freedom to decide what types of care and support best meets your needs. This can include selecting your own caregivers, designing your own care plan, and even managing the budget allocated for your care.
This approach can be particularly beneficial for people living with disabilities, aged care consumer directed care, and those requiring long-term care, as it empowers them to remain actively involved in decisions that affect their lives.
What is a CDC model?
Consumer-directed care (CDC) models are all about putting the power back in your hands, allowing you to take charge of your own care and support. This is how the models work:
Firstly, at the heart of every CDC model is the principle of autonomy. You, the consumer, are encouraged to be the decision-maker in your own care journey. You get to decide what types of services you need, how they are delivered, and who provides them.
Secondly, CDC models offer consumers greater control over their care. This includes the flexibility to choose your service providers, schedule appointments at your own convenience, and modify your care plans as your needs change.
Additionally, CDC models ensure consumers have all the information and support they need to make informed decisions about their care. This involves providing information and resources to help you understand your options, navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and advocate for your own needs effectively.
What are the basic principles of consumer-directed care NDIS?
The basic principles of consumer-directed care include:
- Autonomy – Consumers have the right to make decisions about their own care and support services based on their preferences, needs and goals.
- Choice and control – Consumers have the freedom to choose the types of services they receive, who provides those services, and how and when those services are delivered.
- Individualised care – Care plans and services are tailored to meet the unique needs, and circumstances of each consumer, rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Empowerment – The consumer is empowered to take an active role in managing their own care, including participating in decision-making, setting goals, and advocating for their needs.
- Respect and dignity – Consumers are treated with respect and dignity, recognising their inherent worth and valuing their perspectives and choices.
- Accountability and transparency – Providers and caregivers are accountable to consumers, ensuring transparency and accountability in the delivery of services, open communication, and responsiveness to consumer feedback.
What’s the difference between person-centred care and consumer-directed care?
Person-centred care focuses on tailoring care services to meet the needs and values of the person receiving the care. It‘s about building a respectful and collaborative relationship between the care provider and the individual. This can be beneficial when a participant lives with cognitive or neurological challenges and fully trusts the input of their care providers.
Consumer-directed care takes this a step further, putting the power directly in the hands of the consumer. It’s like giving them the keys to the car of their healthcare journey, allowing them to steer the direction, choose the route, and decide who comes along for the ride.
In essence, while both approaches prioritise the individual’s autonomy and preferences, person-centred care focuses on creating a customised care experience through a collaborative effort, whereas consumer-directed care empowers individuals to take full control and direct their own care journey.
Speak to your provider about consumer-directed care
At Maple, we understand that each participant’s preferred level of control over their care is unique. It’s important to have open discussions with your care providers and health professionals about your desired level of control and autonomy. This way, they can tailor their approach to align with your preferences, ensuring that you receive the care and support that best suits your individual needs.
Reach out to our team at Maple today to find out more about consumer-directed care.
