Exploring the complexity of implementing National Disability Insurance Scheme plans for adults with intellectual...

Area of Science:

• Disability Studies
• Health Services Research
• Social Policy

Background:

• The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a significant policy shift impacting individuals with disabilities and their families.
• Family members often play a crucial role in facilitating the creation and implementation of NDIS plans.
• Understanding the facilitators and barriers families encounter during NDIS plan implementation is essential for effective service delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the experiences of families implementing NDIS plans for adult participants with intellectual disability.
• To identify enablers and barriers encountered during the NDIS plan implementation process from a family perspective.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 20 family groups with adult participants with intellectual disability.
• Data collection through semi-structured interviews.
• Thematic analysis of interview data to identify key themes.

Main Results:

• Families reported increased opportunities for participants due to NDIS funding.
• Navigating NDIS bureaucracy and challenges in finding suitable services and support workers were significant barriers.
• Building partnerships with service providers and the impact of NDIS implementation on family dynamics were key themes.

Conclusions:

• NDIS plan implementation is a complex process for families.
• While funding is valued, systemic issues like bureaucracy and workforce shortages hinder progress.
• Future research should explore family roles in planning and implementation, and NDIS evaluations must incorporate family experiences.