Aleina is surrounded by support workers from Creative Abilities

How to choose a provider

Choosing a provider is your choice and we're here to guide you.

We’re often asked for tips about contracted providers, such as who to choose, which one is the best for their needs, and what to look for. The truth is, the choice is completely yours. We’re here to give you as much information as possible, but it’s also important to do your own research and check things out for yourself. To get started, here’s a list of providers, all of whom are contracted by MSD through DSS 

When researching a provider, check out their websites. Look for information about their leaders, client testimonials, contact details including office locations, and information about quality, safety, or complaints processes.

Check out their social media pages if they have them, and talk to others who’ve been in similar situations.

When you contact a provider, explain what kind of support you need, the times that work best, and the type of support worker who would suit your family. Keep in mind, however, that it might not always be possible for a provider to meet every request exactly, so it’s good to be flexible and explore options that come close to what you need. 

We also suggest picking at least two providers, so you have a backup if your first choice isn’t available. Once you’re ready to get your new support in place, get in touch with us and we’ll guide you through the next steps. 

If you decide to change providers, it usually takes around two weeks to complete the process, with a few extra days to confirm support arrangements and get services started. It’s really important to remember that this may mean you will be without supports during the transition, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and arrange temporary support if needed. 

If you ever have concerns about your provider, it’s best to raise it with them straight away. All contracted providers are expected to have clear ways to respond to feedback or complaints, and if you’re not sure how to go about it, we can help.