New supplier arrangements from 1 April 2010 for the supply of Personal Response Systems (PRS) to DVA Eligible Persons

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) funds the provision of Personal Response Systems products through the Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP) to DVA eligible persons with a clinically assessed need.  Provision of products is arranged by an appropriate health provider through DVA contracted suppliers.

What are the changes?

From 1 April 2010, following the outcome of an open tender process, Personal Response Systems and associated services will be supplied nationally to DVA eligible persons by one of four suppliers.

Prescribers may choose one of the DVA contracted suppliers listed below.

Product catalogues are available from each of the suppliers. 

Provision of a PRS is based on an assessed clinical need and prescribers are required to complete The Personal Response System (PRS) Assessment Form which can be found on the DVA website at :

http://www.dva.gov.au/service_providers/rap/Pages/rap%20index.aspx

The completed form should be faxed to DVA for Prior Approval as soon as possible. Fax to (02) 9213 7978.

What if an eligible person already has a PRS provided by DVA?

For those eligible persons who already have a PRS system provided by DVA through any of the companies listed, there will be no change to the existing arrangements.

Falls Prevention and Home Maintenance Advice and Referral

DVA also administers the HomeFront program and the Veterans’ Home Maintenance Line through contracted provider, Mondial Assistance.

HomeFront is a falls and accident prevention program which assists veterans and war widows/widowers to identify falls hazards in and around their home to help maintain independent living.

DVA Gold and White card holders are eligible for one free annual home assessment in each 12 month period to identify falls hazards in and around the home.  Following this assessment DVA will make a financial contribution towards the cost of recommended items to assist in reducing the risk of falls and accidents. 

Eligible members of the veteran community can call 1800 80 1945 for free HomeFront assessment

The Veterans’ Home Maintenance Line (1800 80 1945) is a toll free service which provides free advice to the veteran community on general property maintenance matters and referral to reliable and efficient local tradespeople. The cost of any work undertaken is not funded by DVA.  This service also provides property maintenance and home inspection advice during the hours of 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday to Friday.

Should emergency property advice be required it is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.

Contact Numbers

For further information regarding provision of PRS products, or other items under RAP, health providers can call the Provider Hotline:

Please press option 1 when prompted