Funding support for partners and carers of amputees

Funding support for people with limb loss

There are a number of different funding streams to support people with limb loss. Funding primarily depends on age and the cause of amputation.

Funding for people under 65 years

If the person is under 65 years of age, they may be funded by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). To gain access to the NDIS, an Access Request Form will need to be completed and submitted. A healthcare provider will need to complete certain sections of the form on behalf of the person entering the Scheme. For more information call the NDIS 1800 800 110.

Funding for people 65 years and over

For people over 65 years there are a number of different funding programs which provide assistance. Prosthetic funding (if eligible) will be covered under the State Government Limb Scheme in your state or territory. Funding is usually restricted in these schemes and in some cases, you may be asked to make a financial contribution. When the time comes work with the prosthetic clinician to determine which prosthetic device will best meet the person’s needs.

Support for partners and carers of amputees 

Funding support – what you need to know!Funding of support services via the My Aged Care system (MAC) may be available. An assessment is required prior to entering into MAC. Funding is assessed on 4 levels of support and will be based on a person’s disability and needs. For more information 1800 200 422.

Funding for people who have been involved in a workplace or transport accident

Regardless of age, if the amputation was due to a transport or workplace accident, funding will be covered by the authority in your state or territory.

The first prosthesis 

If you are eligible, regardless of age, the first prosthesis (called an ‘interim prosthesis’) is funded by the Commonwealth Govenment. There are no out of pocket costs for the first prosthetic device.

Assistive technology

Assistive technology refers to any item which assists people with daily living. This can include wheelchairs, crutches, walking frames, grip-bars (for wet areas like the shower), hand-rails and ramps, and devices required to modify a vehicle; if the person is a right lower limb amputee or has lost an arm. Funding for the above supports greatly depends on which category of funding they fall into.

Some people prefer to hire items like wheelchairs and ramps to enable them to return home prior to entering into a funding scheme. In those cases, items will usually involve out of pocket costs unless the healthcare provider (amputee rehabilitation clinic) provides them. In most cases, rehabilitation clinics do not have enough of these products for everyone, so hiring may be the best option.