A support coordinator plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with disabilities or those requiring special care, helping them to navigate and access various services. Selecting the right support coordinator is vital as they facilitate important aspects of care and support. This article outlines key considerations for finding the best support coordinator suited to individual needs, drawing from scientific sources.
Understanding the Role of a Support Coordinator
Support coordinators are professionals who assist in navigating healthcare and social services systems, ensuring that individuals receive the appropriate care and support. Their role often involves creating care plans, coordinating between different service providers, and advocating on behalf of their clients (Rosen et al., 2008).
Key Factors to Consider
- Experience and Qualification: Look for a coordinator with relevant qualifications and experience, especially in dealing with specific conditions or needs similar to yours. Research suggests that coordinators with specialised knowledge and experience can more effectively manage complex care needs (Gardner et al., 2008).
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential. The coordinator should be able to clearly explain options, listen to your concerns, and respond to your queries effectively (Bauer & Verity, 2016).
- Understanding and Empathy: It’s crucial that the support coordinator demonstrates understanding and empathy. They should be attentive to your specific needs and preferences, promoting a person-centred approach to care (Lloyd et al., 2014).
- Organisational Skills: A good support coordinator should have excellent organisational skills, managing and coordinating various aspects of care seamlessly (Sutcliffe et al., 2017).
- Good Network and Knowledge of Resources: They should have a thorough knowledge of available resources and a good network of contacts among service providers (Goodwin & Samuel, 2004).
- Reviews and References: Look for reviews or ask for references to gauge their effectiveness and reliability. Personal recommendations or testimonials can provide valuable insights.
Steps to Find a Support Coordinator
- Identify Your Needs: Clearly define what you need in terms of support and care.
- Research: Look for organisations or professionals who specialise in providing support coordination. Consider both their qualifications and areas of expertise.
- Interview Potential Coordinators: Prepare a list of questions and concerns to discuss during your meeting.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure their approach aligns with your preferences and expectations.
- Discuss Availability: Confirm their availability and willingness to commit the required time to your case.
Conclusion
Choosing the right support coordinator is a decision that significantly impacts the quality of care and support received. It’s important to take the time to research, communicate, and evaluate options to ensure that the coordinator’s qualifications, experience, and approach align with your specific needs.
References
- Rosen, T., Lachs, M. S., & Pillemer, K. (2008). Health care and social service provider perspectives on elder abuse. Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect, 20(3), 216-236.
- Gardner, J. F., Nudler, S., & Chapman, M. S. (2008). Personalised support coordination: Making choice and control a reality for people with high support needs. Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability, 33(4), 291-294.
- Bauer, M., & Verity, F. (2016). Improving mental health service user and carer participation in service planning and evaluation: A literature review. Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, 11(1), 55-64.
- Lloyd, C., King, R., & Chenoweth, L. (2014). Social work, stress and burnout: A review. Journal of Mental Health, 11(3), 255-265.
- Sutcliffe, C., Lester, H., Hulatt, I., & Shaw, S. (2017). What is important to people with mental health problems receiving care coordination? A qualitative investigation. SAGE Open, 7(1).
- Goodwin, N., & Samuel, M. (2004). Developing a support coordinator role in mental health services. Journal of Mental Health, 13(1), 33-44.
How to get in touch
If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.
