For many NDIS participants, community nursing plays a critical role in maintaining health, managing medical conditions, and supporting independence at home. Whether it’s wound care, medication support, or chronic disease management, community nursing services can be essential for daily wellbeing. At APTOS, we offer compassionate and professional community nursing to support individuals living with disability. Here’s how community nursing fits into the NDIS, what it includes, and how it helps participants thrive.
What Is Community Nursing?
Community nursing is a service provided by qualified nurses in a participant’s home or community setting. These nurses deliver clinical care that would otherwise require a visit to a GP, specialist, or hospital. The goal is to provide high-quality healthcare in a familiar environment that promotes safety, comfort, and independence.
Community nursing under the NDIS is particularly beneficial for participants with complex health needs who require regular clinical oversight alongside their disability supports.
What Nursing Services Are Covered by the NDIS?
The NDIS funds community nursing services that are related to a participant’s disability and are considered “reasonable and necessary.” These services may include:
- Wound and pressure injury care
- Catheter and continence care
- PEG feeding and stoma care
- Medication administration and management
- Diabetes education and insulin support
- Monitoring chronic conditions (e.g., respiratory or cardiac)
- Health education and lifestyle support
- Functional health assessments
- Liaising with GPs and allied health professionals
Nursing care is generally funded under the Capacity Building Supports or Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life categories, depending on individual needs and the frequency of care.
Who Needs Community Nursing?
Community nursing is often appropriate for participants who:
- Have ongoing or complex health conditions
- Are transitioning from hospital to home
- Require help with medications or chronic disease management
- Experience limited mobility or are at risk of skin breakdown
- Need support for feeding tubes, catheters, or other medical devices
- Live independently and want to maintain their health at home
It is also helpful for carers and families who want professional oversight and peace of mind.
Benefits of Community Nursing in the NDIS
1. Improved Health Outcomes
Regular, proactive nursing care reduces the risk of health complications. Participants are more likely to stay well and avoid emergency hospital visits.
2. Support in a Comfortable Environment
Nurses come to you—whether that’s your home, supported accommodation, or community centre. This reduces the stress and effort of travelling to appointments.
3. Greater Independence
With the right health supports in place, participants can maintain autonomy over their daily routines, knowing help is available when needed.
4. Holistic, Person-Centred Care
Community nurses work closely with participants, families, and other providers to ensure care is respectful, personalised, and aligned with individual goals.
5. Integrated Support with Other Services
APTOS community nurses liaise with support coordinators, therapists, and GPs to deliver coordinated care that enhances all aspects of a participant’s NDIS plan.
How to Access Community Nursing Through the NDIS
Step 1: Identify the Need
If you or a loved one has health conditions that impact daily life, discuss this with your GP, support coordinator, or allied health team.
Step 2: Request It in Your NDIS Plan
During your NDIS planning or review meeting, clearly outline the need for community nursing. Include supporting documents such as:
- Letters from health professionals
- Hospital discharge summaries
- Previous care plans or treatment records
Step 3: Use Your Funding
Once approved, community nursing can be accessed through your NDIS plan. APTOS can help coordinate care quickly, ensuring services begin as soon as possible.
Depending on the complexity, the service may be provided by a Registered Nurse (RN) or Enrolled Nurse (EN), and the type of nurse will affect the funding requirements.
Supporting Families and Carers
Community nursing can also ease the responsibilities of carers by:
- Taking over complex health tasks
- Providing training to support daily care
- Offering emotional support and education
- Ensuring carers get breaks when needed
When families know that professional care is in place, it builds trust and reduces stress.
Final Thoughts
Community nursing under the NDIS provides crucial support for participants managing health conditions alongside disability. It enables people to stay safe, confident, and well at home while pursuing their goals.
Want to find out if community nursing is right for your NDIS plan? APTOS is here to help. Contact us today for more information or to speak with a friendly team member.
