I-CAN Assessments, Foundational Supports & Funding Period Pressure

Joining Cathy Love this week is Sara Gingold, Editor-in-Chief of the Disability Services Consulting (DSC) Resource Hub, to unpack the fast-moving changes shaping the NDIS through an Allied Health Business lens. They explore the shift toward I-CAN (Instrument for the Classification and Assessment of Support Needs) as the foundation for new NDIA-led Support Needs Assessments, and the unanswered questions about how assessment data will translate into individual budgets. They also examine the proposed Foundational Supports framework, including the Thriving Kids program, and what these reforms could mean for children currently receiving NDIS-funded therapy. The episode also addresses mounting provider pressures ranging from therapy operational guideline updates and pricing uncertainty to the real-world disruption caused by quarterly funding periods. Throughout the discussion, Sara brings clear sector perspective, and key reflections for Allied Health Business Owners navigating uncertainty. Topics covered on I-CAN & Support Needs Assessments, Foundational Supports & Thriving Kids, & operational pressure points for providers: I-CAN & Support Needs Assessments – The critical unanswered question remains: how will I-CAN results translate into a participant’s budget? Foundational Supports & Thriving Kids – An overview of the proposed Foundational Supports model, including Thriving Kids for children with mild to moderate developmental delay and autism, and the complexities of state and territory negotiations still underway. Operational pressure points for providers – New therapy operational guidelines, discussions around differentiated pricing, the impact of recent price changes across therapy disciplines. P.S. If this episode is hitting on pain points you’re facing, let’s chat. We can support you. Book a 20-minute complimentary call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business. Midroll Message: A workshop not to be missed. Join us in-person this March in Melbourne. Connect with Nacre Consulting: Let’s connect on Instagram Follow us on Facebook Let’s connect on LinkedIn Join our Facebook Group online community More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast: The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian Allied Health Business Owners. Cathy Love, our engaging host, gathers wisdom from Allied Health professionals and industry supporters alike. We dive into the real experiences of running and growing Allied Health businesses in Australia, revealing both the rewards and the inevitable challenges along the way. It’s raw, sometimes vulnerable, but always valuable. Join us and stay tuned to keep up with every inspiring story and lesson shared.