HACC assessment is a key activity in determining appropriate services that support client independence in the home and community. Potential HACC clients are screened for eligibility and then assessed for a appropriate support to meet their needs..

Currently the assessment process is varied across the sector, with some agencies demonstrating a sound understanding of an wellness/independence based model of assessment and service delivery while other agencies tend to deliver services based on eligibility rather than on need.

Working Towards a Wellness Assessment

CommunityWest has developed a 'Working Towards a Wellness Assessment' module for HACC assessors designed to expand their communication skills so that they provide assessments that promote client independence, are specific to client goals and embrace the HACC philosophy.

This 1 day Introduction to 'Working Towards a Wellness Assessment' module focuses on the first step in the process by:

• providing basic theory of assessment,
• introducing a broad, needs based approach to determining client needs, and
• exploring the communication skills that an assessment officer needs to develop and demonstrate to effectively conduct HACC assessments.

The workshop is now scheduled into the CommunityWest Training Calendar following the integration of feedback from the pilots.

The workshop aims to enhance HACC agencies knowledge of the HACC philosophy and creates a common understanding of assessment processes and outcomes.  It also compliments Access, Wellness and the Manager/ Coordinator and Assessor Skills Development programme.

Further Assessment Module Development

CommunityWest is currently working with HACC to develop further modules that build on the 'Working Towards a Wellness Assessment' and complement the Assessment Framework.  It is anticipated that these modules will be trialled early in 2010.