Finding Healthcare Providers Experienced With Your Specific Disability

Finding healthcare providers who understand your specific disability can make a huge difference in your care quality. This guide helps you navigate Australian resources to find the right specialists, with a focus on services in the Illawarra region.

How to Search for Disability Healthcare Providers

The NDIS Provider Finder is your starting point for discovering registered providers who can support your needs.

To find NDIS registered providers you can search the Provider Finder here or when you are on the myplace portal. This tool lets you filter providers based on location and the type of support you need.

For broader healthcare searches:

• Use the healthdirect Service Finder to locate nearby health services including GPs, hospitals and specialists

• Contact the Disability Gateway on 1800 643 787 for help navigating disability information and services across Australia

• Try specialised search tools like Health Provider Finder and My Provider Finder to connect with verified healthcare providers

What to Ask Potential Healthcare Providers

Before choosing a provider, ask key questions to check if they're right for you:

• How much experience do you have with my specific disability?

• What specialised training do you have in this area?

• How long is your waiting list for new patients?

• Can I put my name on your waiting list and still see other providers?

• Do you bulk bill or accept NDIS funding?

• Is your facility accessible for my needs?

Before you agree to work with a provider, you might want to research their services on the internet, check reviews, get advice from friends or family and speak with different providers.

Local Illawarra Disability Healthcare Resources

The Illawarra region offers several specialised disability services:

South East Sydney Specialist Intellectual Disability Health Team serves the Illawarra Shoalhaven region and can conduct an assessment, develop a health care plan, coordinate referrals to specialists and support the treating paediatrician or GP.

For direct contact with the local specialist team: 

For GPs in the Illawarra Shoalhaven contact SESLHD SIDHT by calling 8566 1222 or email SESLHD-SpecialistIntellectualDisabilityHealthTeam@health.nsw.gov.au

Using Telehealth for Disability Services

For people with mobility challenges or those in remote areas, telehealth offers a practical alternative.

For people living with disabilities, video consultations can improve access to a range of different treatments and models of care. healthdirect Video Call allows patients, carers and health professionals to attend appointments from wherever is most convenient.

Consider asking providers if they offer telehealth options, especially for initial consultations or follow-up appointments.

Checking Provider Qualifications

When researching potential healthcare providers:

• Verify their registration status through the AHPRA Register of practitioners

• Check if they're registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission

• Look for specialists who work with allied health practitioners familiar with disability needs

Under the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, registered providers must meet the NDIS Practice Standards. Both registered and unregistered providers must adhere to the NDIS Code of Conduct.

Making Your Decision

Take your time when selecting a healthcare provider. Consider these practical steps:

• Create a shortlist of 3-4 potential providers

• Read online reviews about their services

• Ask for recommendations from disability support groups

• Visit their office if possible to check accessibility

• Request a brief initial meeting to determine if you feel comfortable

Remember that you can change providers if your first choice doesn't work out. Your healthcare journey may involve trying different specialists until you find the right fit.

Getting Support with Your Search

Don't hesitate to ask for help when searching for healthcare providers:

• Work with a support coordinator if you have one in your NDIS plan

• Contact disability advocacy groups in the Illawarra region

• Ask family members or friends to help research options

• Reach out to other people with similar disabilities for recommendations

Finding healthcare providers who understand your disability takes time, but the right specialist can make a significant difference in your health outcomes and quality of life.