Tip #47 Health and the NDIS

Ever had the NDIS tell you something is "health, not disability" and felt like screaming into the void? You're not alone! This mystical line between health and disability can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's cube blindfolded – frustrating and seemingly impossible.

When Lines Get Blurry

Here's where things get interesting (and by interesting, we mean potentially maddening). Sometimes the NDIS says no to funding something because it's "health-related." But wait – isn't your disability often connected to your health needs?

Take this example: you have Autism and need support to attend GP visits because crowded waiting rooms, unfamiliar environments, or communication challenges make it overwhelming. The NDIS might say "that's health, not our problem." But is it really just health, or is it disability support that happens to occur in a health setting?

The Power of Questions

Here's your secret weapon: questions. Lots of them. Don't accept "it's health" as the final word. Ask:

• How exactly is this different from other disability supports?
• Where's the line drawn and why?
• What documentation supports this decision?
• Can you explain the policy behind this ruling?

Remember, you're not being difficult – you're being thorough.

Document the Journey

Your trusty Calendary becomes crucial here. Record every conversation, email, and decision about health versus disability funding. Note who said what, when they said it, and any supporting documentation they mentioned.

These notes might be the key to a successful review or appeal. Keep asking, keep questioning, and keep writing it all down!