Hospitals are a key referral source for NDIS providers looking to support individuals with disabilities. Many patients in hospitals require ongoing support upon discharge, making it essential for NDIS providers to establish strong connections with hospital staff, social workers, and discharge planners.
Why Are Hospitals a Valuable Source of NDIS Clients?
Hospitals frequently care for individuals who require disability support after their discharge. Many patients:
- Are newly eligible for NDIS funding due to acquired disabilities or significant health changes.
- Require ongoing support, such as personal care, therapy, or assistive technology.
- Need home modifications or supported accommodation before leaving the hospital.
- Depend on NDIS providers to help them transition safely from hospital to community living.
By engaging with hospital staff early, NDIS providers can become the preferred choice for patients requiring disability services.
Related: How to Get NDIS Clients: A Comprehensive Guide for Providers
How Can NDIS Providers Build Relationships with Hospitals?
1. Establish Connections with Hospital Discharge Teams
- Introduce your services to discharge planners, social workers, and allied health professionals.
- Offer information on how your organisation can support NDIS participants post-hospitalisation.
- Develop relationships with hospital-based NDIS coordinators who assist patients in navigating the NDIS.
2. Provide Education and Resources for Hospital Staff
- Offer NDIS training sessions to help hospital teams understand how providers assist with discharge planning.
- Supply brochures, fact sheets, and contact details for easy referrals.
- Host information sessions or meetings with hospital staff to explain available supports.
3. Register with Hospital Referral Networks
- Ensure your organisation is listed as a preferred provider within hospitals and rehabilitation centres.
- Work with hospital-based disability liaison officers who coordinate NDIS-related referrals.
- Participate in hospital case management meetings where discharge options are discussed.
4. Develop a Rapid Response Team for Hospital Referrals
- Create a dedicated hospital intake team to respond to referrals quickly.
- Offer immediate support coordination and service planning to ensure a smooth transition for patients.
- Work with hospitals to fast-track NDIS approvals where urgent services are required.
What Services Should NDIS Providers Highlight to Hospitals?
To attract hospital referrals, NDIS providers should promote the services that are most relevant to patients being discharged. These include:
- Support Coordination – Assisting patients in understanding and implementing their NDIS plans.
- Short-Term Accommodation (STA) – Temporary housing solutions for patients unable to return home immediately.
- Supported Independent Living (SIL) – Long-term housing options with daily support.
- Personal Care Services – Assistance with hygiene, dressing, and daily living tasks.
- Therapy and Rehabilitation Support – Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and mental health support.
- Assistive Technology and Home Modifications – Wheelchairs, hoists, and home accessibility improvements.
By focusing on these key services, NDIS providers can position themselves as essential partners in the hospital discharge process.
How to Market NDIS Services to Hospitals?
1. Build a Strong Local Presence
- Network with hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and community health organisations.
- Attend hospital forums and disability sector events to connect with key decision-makers.
2. Develop a Professional Referral Process
- Create an easy-to-follow referral pathway for hospital staff to connect patients with your services.
- Offer a single point of contact within your organisation to handle hospital referrals efficiently.
3. Leverage Case Studies and Testimonials
- Share success stories of clients who transitioned successfully from hospital with your support.
- Highlight positive experiences from hospital staff who have worked with your organisation.
4. Offer a Seamless Onboarding Process for New Clients
- Ensure that your intake and assessment process is fast and efficient.
- Assign a dedicated coordinator to each new client for a personalised approach.
Final Thoughts
For NDIS providers, hospitals present a significant opportunity to connect with clients in need of support. By building strong relationships with hospital teams, streamlining referral processes, and demonstrating the value of your services, providers can become the preferred choice for NDIS participants transitioning from hospital care.
If you are an NDIS provider looking to expand your client base through hospital referrals, investing in hospital outreach strategies will help establish your reputation and grow your business.
