Equipment services include:

• Basic medical and rehabilitation equipment
• Specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment

The TAC also has a panel of suppliers who are contracted to supply equipment to transport accident clients (Contracted Equipment Supplier).

Basic medical and rehabilitation equipment

A TAC client may need basic medical and rehabilitation equipment items such as braces, dressing aids, kitchen and bathroom aids, bandages, hygiene products, crutches or moonboots as a result of their transport accident injuries. If a client had prescription glasses or dentures damaged or lost in the transport accident, they might need these replaced or repaired.

Low-cost rehabilitation equipment can be provided to a TAC client to manage their injuries at home and reduce for the need for them to have hands on treatment. Some examples of this type of equipment include exercise bands, gym mats, massage/spiky balls.

Specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment

A TAC client may also require specialised pieces of medical and rehabilitation equipment.  The TAC considers these items things like medical grade beds, computers, minor home modification items like handrails, electric hoists, mobility scooters, wheelchairs, medical monitoring equipment and life support equipment.  Items like these require prior approval from the TAC before they are purchased and need to be recommended by a health professional.

In this policy:

Health professional refers to a registered medical practitioner or allied health or nursing professional who uses their expertise to recommend and clinically justify the most appropriate equipment to maximise a client's rehabilitation or medical function.

Medical equipment is required to treat or stabilise a medical condition, and includes things like optical devices, dentures, room temperature control, life support equipment and is recommended by the client’s treating medical practitioner.

Rehabilitation equipment is required to treat or stabilise any accident-related condition or injury and includes things like wheelchairs, mobility aids, communication aids, hoists, household aids, dressing and showering aids and is recommended by a health professional (e.g. occupational therapist, physiotherapist or speech therapist).

Supplier refers to a manufacturer or retailer that provides equipment and related services to a client.

TAC contracted equipment supplier refers to a supplier which the TAC has formally engaged on an ongoing basis for the provision of equipment and related services to its clients.

TAC Contracted Supplier Equipment Lists are guides to equipment available through TAC contracted suppliers. Available under Ordering equipment, these lists are a resource for a client’s health professional to use when recommending equipment.

TAC Equipment Purchasing Team sources specialised and/or custom-made equipment for patients through non-contracted suppliers.

The TAC follows legislation called the Transport Accident Act 1986 (the Act). This legislation sets out what the TAC can pay for and any condition that apply.

Section 3 of the Act defines a medical service to include the provision, repair, adjustment and replacement of various pieces of medical equipment. This includes artificial members, eyes or teeth, spectacle glasses, hearing aids, orthoses or mobility aides and equipment intended to treat or stabilize an injury or condition from a transport accident e.g., life support equipment, room temperature control equipment, braces, splints, bandages, etc.

Section 23 of the Act says:

• That the TAC can authorise a service to be a rehabilitation or disability service
• That the TAC can authorise who provides the service
• That the TAC must approve authorised rehabilitation services before they are provided, and in writing

The TAC has authorised rehabilitation equipment as a rehabilitation service under Section 23 of the Act.  The authorisation includes therapeutic educational or adaptive equipment, which may be for mobility, household, domestic, independence, safety or recreational purposes.

Section 60(2) says that the TAC is liable to pay the reasonable cost of medical services and rehabilitation services received in Australia because of the transport accident.

The TAC expects health professionals to integrate the following principles of the Clinical Framework for the Delivery of Health Services:

• Measure and demonstrate the effectiveness of treatment
• Adopt a biopsychosocial approach
• Empower the injured person to manage their injury
• Implement goals focused on optimising function, participation and return to work
• Base treatment on best available research evidence.

The discussion, referral and approval of services/ equipment for clients with a severe injury and permanent disability (such as acquired brain injury or paraplegia) may be considered as part of a goal-based therapy and support plan (MyPlan).

The TAC expects that all health professionals will follow the Code of Conduct required by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and/or the relevant code of conduct or professional standards for their profession.

Health professionals who are treating TAC clients must also comply with the Funding Treatment by a Member of the Client’s Immediate Family policy.

The client or provider will need to contact the TAC for approval of the medical and rehabilitation equipment if:

• It is approaching or more than 90 days since the transport accident and the TAC have not approved further treatment or services, or
• It has been more than 6 months since the client had any treatment or service paid for by the TAC, or
• For all Specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment

Basic medical and rehabilitation equipment

In the first 90 days after the transport accident, any basic equipment and medical aids a client needs are approved by the TAC. The TAC client can get this equipment from one of the TAC’s contracted equipment suppliers when their health professional recommends it.

After the first 90 days, the client will need TAC approval for any equipment.

Specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment

Prior approval is needed if a TAC client needs specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment.

The TAC will pay for the client to visit their health professional so they can discuss their specialised medical and rehabilitation needs with them. As part of that visit, they can prescribe specialised medical or rehabilitation equipment items to help a client manage their transport accident-related injuries. The TAC can pay the cost of this equipment, including supply, delivery and installation.

The TAC can also pay for the repair, adjustment or replacement of medical and rehabilitation equipment that was broken, damaged or lost in the accident.

These services are available through the TAC’s contracted equipment supplier/s.

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs (purchase/ hire/ maintenance/repair/delivery) of the medical and rehabilitation equipment that a client may need and receive in Australia when required because of your transport accident-related injuries to:

• support a TAC client's rehabilitation and recovery of their transport accident-related injuries i.e. promotes function and assists in recovery of their transport accident-related injuries.
• assist TAC clients who have acquired a severe injury and permanent disability in a transport accident to get their lives back on track.

Where a pre-existing condition has become aggravated as a result of a transport accident, the TAC will consider funding the supports for that condition. The level of support that the TAC can consider funding will depend on the extent to which the transport accident has exacerbated the pre-existing condition.

The TAC can consider paying the reasonable costs of supply (purchase or hire), delivery and installation of medical and rehabilitation equipment where it is required as a result of a transport accident injury. They include:

• Basic medical and rehabilitation equipment
• Specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment

Hire of equipment should only be considered for short term use, usually 6-12 weeks.

Equipment should be reasonable, clinically justified, related to the transport accident injuries and in support of a specific recovery outcome.

The TAC considers the reasonable cost of these items to be the recommended retail price.

The TAC can also consider the reasonable costs of related services, including repairs, maintenance and delivery of equipment.

The TAC also has a panel of suppliers who are contracted to supply equipment to transport accident clients (Contracted Equipment Supplier).

Types of equipment

Basic medical and rehabilitation equipment

If a client requires basic medical or rehabilitation equipment within the first 90 days of their accident, a health professional does not need TAC approval to prescribe this for a client’s transport accident injuries. The client's health professional can order directly from a contracted equipment supplier, who will send the invoice to the TAC.

The TAC approval is required for basic medical and rehabilitation equipment beyond 90 days after their transport accident.

Basic medical and rehabilitation equipment includes:

• bandages and braces (e.g. compression, Tubigrip, triangular slings)
• cleaning equipment (adapted, non-electrical)
• clothing and dressing aids (e.g. compression stockings, stocking aids, dressing sticks, button hooks)
• continence equipment (e.g. pads, briefs, bowel care items)
• eating and drinking aids (e.g. adapted cutlery, mugs, cups and plates)
• hand strengthening items (e.g. hand putty / Theraputty, Digi-flex)
• heat packs and ice packs (reusable, not single use)
• household aids (e.g. reaching aids, tap turners, bottle and jar openers, adapted cleaning aids)
• hygiene aids (e.g. shower stools, bath boards, bath transfer bench, basic commodes, toilet seat raisers, surround toilet frames)
• orthoses (off the shelf, non-customised)
• physio items (e.g. balance supports, exercise bands, exercise foam, exercise putty, fit balls, foam rollers, lumbar support rolls, hand weights, massage balls, body positioning pillows)
• basic wound care items (including silicone gel sheeting (one 10x13cm sheet only) or in equivalent liquid form, tapes, bandages, zinc oxide, Fixomull, strapping)
• supports (e.g. braces, splints)
• taping (e.g. zinc oxide, Fixomull, strapping)
• thermal supports, pressure garments and gloves
• walking and mobility aids (e.g. crutches, pick-up sticks, walking sticks, walking frames)

Basic recreational and therapy equipment (e.g. therapy bands, massage balls, foam rollers) may be prescribed as part of a self-management plan. Each piece of equipment must be reasonable, clinically justified and in support of a specific recovery outcome.

It is expected that one unique item will be sufficient for a client’s self-management plan (e.g. supply of two reusable heat packs or two foam rollers is not seen as reasonable).

For basic equipment, please complete the Basic equipment request form to submit requests.

Specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment

Where a client needs specialised medical or rehabilitation equipment, this requires TAC approval. Specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment includes:

• electric adjustable medical beds
• modified bikes (e.g. hand cycles and recumbent trikes)
• custom toilet / shower / commode chairs / shower trolleys
• ceiling and mobile hoists
• large exercise equipment (e.g. stationary bikes
• lifting and standing items
• lift chairs
• mainstream multi-functional technology (e.g. tablets, smartphones, computers)
• pressure care mattresses
• minor home modification items (e.g. handrails, shower modifications)
• minor vehicle modifications (e.g. spinner knobs, hand controls)
• orthoses (customised)
• powered conversion kits
• pressure cushions
• ramps
• recumbent trikes
• mobility scooters
• shower trolleys
• specialised medical items
• standing frames
• tilt tables
• treatment couches
• vocational aids
• wheelchairs

Specialised equipment requires written clinical justification on the Assistive technology assessment and recommendations form from a client’s health professional (e.g. occupational therapist, physiotherapist or speech therapist). The request should include:

• a summary of the patient’s injuries and equipment needs
• relationship between the equipment and transport accident injury
• details of the specific item, function and intended use
• duration and expected use of the equipment (for hire)
• costs of the equipment in an itemised quote

For customised orthoses, please complete the Orthotic device request form to submit requests.

It is expected that wherever possible equipment items will be ordered from TAC’s Contracted Supplier Equipment Lists (see Ordering equipment).

Further clinical justification is required if an equivalent item is being requested from an alternative non-contracted supplier.

Where possible, patients should always trial equipment before a request is submitted to TAC, to make sure that it is fit for purpose.

Other types of equipment

For an equipment item not listed as either basic or specialised above, please submit a request to TAC by letter or email, or contact the TAC claims manager to discuss.

Equipment can be obtained from a range of suppliers, depending on the type of equipment required and the client’s circumstances. These include contracted and non-contracted equipment suppliers and, in certain circumstances, public and private hospitals.

Contracted Equipment Suppliers

TAC’s contracted equipment suppliers provide the standard items included in Contracted Supplier Equipment Lists (see Ordering equipment).

Health professionals and TAC clients can contact these suppliers to request the rehabilitation and medical equipment they need. If it is outside of 90 days since the transport accident the contracted supplier will contact the TAC to seek approval. Contracted equipment suppliers can also provide customised or specialised equipment items, including customised wheelchairs, beds, hoists and commodes communication devices.

For more information on TAC's contracted equipment suppliers for medical and rehabilitation equipment, please visit:

• Aidacare
• Country Care Group
• Independence Australia (Mobility Aids)
• Independent Living Specialists
• Independence Australia (Wound Care)
• Independent Australia (Continence Aids)

Non-Contracted Equipment Suppliers

Where specialised equipment items are to be provided by non-contracted suppliers, this must be organised via the TAC Equipment Purchasing Team.

Public hospitals

Bed fees paid in Victorian public hospitals cover the cost of aids and equipment, including surgical supplies, provided to a patient whilst an inpatient.

• The first 30 days post-discharge: Victorian public hospitals are responsible for providing aids, equipment and domiciliary oxygen free of charge (no deposits or hire fees) to facilitate a safe and effective discharge for a period of 30 after an acute, sub-acute or rehabilitation admission. If the patient needs equipment of a non-reusable nature, these items should be purchased by the hospital and not provided on a hire basis.
• After 30 days post-discharge: After 30 days from discharge, the TAC is responsible for providing aids and equipment. Victorian public hospitals must contact us to determine alternative equipment arrangements are needed or whether the current hire arrangements will continue.

Private hospitals

Bed fees paid in private hospitals cover the cost of aids and equipment provided to inpatients. Theatre fees cover the costs of surgical supplies provided during operating room procedures. See TAC Private hospital guidelines.

For basic equipment for discharge, private hospitals can order directly from TAC’s contracted equipment suppliers on the Hospital Direct Order Form, who will send the invoice to TAC. Prior approval is required for specialised equipment.

Basic medical and rehabilitation equipment

The health professional will recommend the basic medical and rehabilitation equipment item required for a client’s transport accident injuries and can directly order from the TAC’s contracted equipment supplier if within the first 90 days after the accident date. The TAC approval is required for basic medical and rehabilitation equipment beyond 90 days after their transport accident.

Specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment

Before the TAC can pay for specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment items, the TAC requires the health professional to provide an Assistive technology assessment and recommendations form. The TAC will work with health professional and the contracted equipment supplier to organise the supply of the item.

The TAC can also pay for repair and maintenance of any specialised medical and rehabilitation equipment item that may have been prescribed on an ongoing basis, provided it was used properly and looked after. See above What the TAC can pay for section for list of the items.

Where a health professional cannot recommend equipment through the contracted equipment supplier, they should contact the TAC. The TAC will work with treating health professional to source the equipment needed.

Medical and rehabilitation equipment supplied by a hospital at discharge

All medical and rehabilitation equipment required in the hospital will be provided by the hospital. When a TAC client leaves hospital, the equipment they need will be recommended by the hospital for either a hire or a permanent basis. The TAC will then pay the cost of hire or the purchase of equipment through TAC’s contracted equipment supplier. Victorian Public Hospitals are excluded and will provide the equipment for the first 30 days. Please refer to the discharge from hospital section above.

Maintenance

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of maintenance for specialised equipment items paid for by the TAC, such as:

• electric standing hoists
• electric ceiling hoists
• electric adjustable medical beds
• alternating air pressure mattresses
• wheelchairs (powered, manual and tilt in space)
• mobility scooters
• room temperature control units (air-conditioner/heaters)
• commodes (shower or transporter varieties)
• feed pumps
• Respiratory - ventilators and suction units (does not include CPAP or VPAP or nebulizers).
• home modifications including wheelchair lifts and automatic doors

Repairs and replacement

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of repairs and replacement arising from normal wear and tear to equipment we have paid for. We can also pay for modifications where the equipment is adaptive or disability-specific, such as wheelchairs, commodes, and electric scooters.

It is expected that equipment we partially or entirely pay for is used in a responsible manner consistent with its intended use. Equipment should be maintained appropriately, stored responsibly and in no way wilfully damaged.

The TAC client may choose to take out an appropriate level of insurance at their own cost.

Pre-approved repairs for high cost items

Some high cost equipment items are eligible for pre-approved repairs. These equipment items (listed below) can be repaired up to 3 times per year, to the value of $700 per repair.

This means the client can contact the original equipment supplier directly to organise repairs.

They do not need to contact the TAC for approval. If a repair is more than $700 or the equipment exceeds 3 repairs per year, the equipment supplier will submit a quote to the TAC for approval.

The following items are pre-approved for repairs:

• Electric adjustable medical beds
• Electric standing hoist
• Electric ceiling hoist
• Mobility scooter
• Wheelchairs (powered, manual and tilt in space)
• Commodes (shower or transporter varieties)
• Alternating air pressure mattress
• Feed pump
• Respiratory - ventilator and suction unit (does not include CPAP or VPAP or nebulizers).

Please note: any high cost equipment items needing repair that are not listed above require approval from the TAC.

Emergency equipment repairs

All repair requests should be directed to one of the TAC Equipment Contractors in the first instance during business hours. The only exception should be if a client requires an emergency (client at high safety risk) equipment repair outside business hours (9am – 5pm)  Monday to Friday.

In this situation, the client or their support staff can contact the following numbers for assistance:

Aidacare on 1300 133 128 or servicevic@aidacare.com.au during:
Weekdays 5pm-11pm
Weekends and public holidays 9am-5pm

Country Care Group on 1800 843 224 during:
Weekdays 5pm-10pm
Weekends and public holidays 9am-5pm

Independence Australia (in partnership with Mobility Aids) on 1800 765 833 during:
Weekdays 5pm-9am
Weekends and public holidays 24 hours

Independent Living Specialists on 0418 439 457 during:
Weekdays 5pm-11pm
Weekends and public holidays 9am-5pm

Equipment damaged in the transport accident

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of repair, adjustment or equivalent replacement of medical or rehabilitation equipment that was broken, damaged or lost in a transport accident. Equipment will be restored to TAC client’s pre-accident prescription. Examples include medical equipment such as dentures, orthotics, mobility aids and/or optical equipment that was required prior to the accident.

TAC Client contribution

TAC Client will be required to contribute to the cost of equipment where:

• they select equipment that is more expensive than a suitable standard model
• the equipment would be required regardless of the transport accident injury, such as household items
• the equipment is only partially related to client’s transport accident injury

Capital Services Agreements

For items in excess of $5,000 a client may be required to enter into a contractual agreement with the TAC, called a Capital Services Agreement. The TAC will notify the client where this is required. This agreement establishes respective responsibilities with regards to ownership over the medical and rehabilitation equipment and any ongoing costs.

The TAC can pay for these items:

• Directly to the service provider or the medical and rehabilitation equipment supplier, when client has provided them with their TAC claim number within the first 90 days after the accident. After the 90 days, the TAC will provide the TAC claim number to the service provider or medical and rehabilitation equipment supplier.
• If a client has to pay within the first 90 days after the accident, use myTAC to send a copy of receipt to the TAC and get reimbursed.
• Directly to the service provider or medical and rehabilitation equipment supplier, if a client has entered into a Capital Services Agreement.

The TAC can pay for services in line with responsibilities under the Transport Accident Act 1986.

The TAC expects clients to use the equipment items that the TAC pay for with reasonable care and use them for their intended purpose.

The TAC can pay the reasonable cost of medical and rehabilitation equipment items required for a client as a result of their transport accident injuries.

With the supply of medical and rehabilitation equipment, the TAC:

• Accept the reasonable cost of items as being the recommended retail price.
• Expect consumables used as part of an in-rooms consultation to be included in the price of the consultation. There may be some exceptions with regards to the excessive cost of consumables related to hand and burn specific dressings.

The client may need to pay some of the cost of their equipment when:

• The client chooses a medical and rehabilitation equipment item or brand that is more expensive than the base model that is needed.
• The client would have needed the equipment regardless of their transport accident-related injuries
• The equipment is not completely related to the transport accident-related injuries.

Other things to note

Medical excess

For accidents that occurred prior to 14 February 2018 a medical excess may apply. If the medical excess applies, the provider will need to invoice the client directly.

TAC clients with a severe injury

If the client has a severe injury, the discussion, referral and approval of equipment may form part of the independence planning process between the client's treating team and the TAC coordinator.

TAC clients with individualised funding packages

If the client already has an individualised funding package, medical and rehabilitation Equipment purchase or hire that costs less than $1000 per item inclusive of delivery may be included as part of that.

Gap in treatment

If the client has not received a treatment or service in 6 months they will need to seek approval from the TAC before the TAC will pay for further medical and rehabilitation equipment.

Client contribution

The client will be required to contribute to the cost of medical and rehabilitation equipment where:

• the client selects equipment that is more expensive than a suitable standard model
• the equipment would be required regardless of the transport accident injury
• the equipment is only partially related to client’s transport accident injury

• Normal household items
• Equipment items provided to an in-patient as part of a hospital bed fee
• Equipment items for the first 30 days post discharge from a public hospital
• Insurance to cover equipment the TAC have paid for.
• Vitamins and supplements prescribed by an allied health provider. The TAC can only pay for these when recommended by a medical practitioner and purchased at a pharmacy. Refer to the Pharmacy and Medication expenses policy
• Medical and rehabilitation equipment that is not needed to treat transport accident injuries
• Multiple items of the same type except for consumables such as wound dressings or hygiene products
• The cost of insurance. The TAC strongly encourages clients to insure any high-cost equipment items that might be prescribed
• Any costs associated with non-attendance at consultations or fittings
• The TAC also cannot pay for medical and rehabilitation equipment items that:
  • Do not treat a client’s transport accident injuries
  • Are not reasonable, necessary or appropriate
  • Are not clinically justified, safe and effective.

Please do not invoice the TAC for consumables used as a part of in-rooms treatment (e.g. isopropyl alcohol wipes, needles, cotton balls, rubber gloves), as the TAC undertakes periodic reviews of invoicing patterns and conduct audits from time to time to ensure supply of these items is clinically justified. There may be some exceptions for the excessive cost of consumables related to hand and burn specific dressings.

Provision of multiple same or similar items will generate a review of treatment/service.

Further information can be found at What we cannot pay for.

Basic Medical and Rehabilitation Equipment -

• First 90 days - Within the first 90 days of a client’s accident, the TAC can help pay for basic medical and rehabilitation equipment without the need for prior TAC approval. The request must be recommended by a health professional, related to the client’s accident injuries and delivered in line with the Clinical Framework. The TAC may contact clients or their service providers to discuss client progress and ensure that treatment is clinically justified, and outcome focused.
• Approaching or more than 90 days - If a client needs basic medical and rehabilitation equipment beyond 90 days after their transport accident, the provider must seek TAC approval in writing.

Specialised Medical and Rehabilitation Equipment –

• All Specialised medical and Rehabilitation Equipment requests need an approval from the TAC.

Process map (*Guide only)

Equipment Request Ready Reckoner

Please refer to the below Ready Reckoner to confirm if a written request in form of a letter or email is sufficient or appropriate request form needs to be completed and submitted.

Medical beds

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of medical beds and related items, such as:

• adjustable beds
• specialist or pressure care mattresses
• pressure care overlays
• moving or positioning supports

Requests for medical beds should be submitted by the client's health professional (e.g. occupational therapist or physiotherapist) on the Assistive technology assessment and recommendations form.

Standard beds

There is currently no conclusive National Health and Medical Research Council level 1 or 2 evidence to show that sleeping on a particular type of bed or mattress can help back pain compared to other mattress types.

See our Non-Established, New or Emerging Treatment and Services policy.

Standard seating

There is currently no conclusive National Health and Medical Research Council level 1 or 2 evidence to show that sitting on a standard couch or recliner can help with oedema or pain management.

See our Non-Established, New or Emerging Treatment and Services policy.

Clothing, including compression garments

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs for clothing only where required for:

• body temperature control, or thermoregulation, such as thermal undergarments, thermal gloves, mittens or mitts
• reducing the risk of re-injury or deterioration, such as wheelchair gloves
• minimising hypertrophic scarring, oedema or other similar conditions, such as compression garments prescribed by a treating medical practitioner for the management of wounds or burns

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of modifications/alterations to standard retail clothing and/or clothing paid for by us where this is required to facilitate independence, safety or return to work.

In relation to clothing, the TAC cannot pay for:

• off the shelf clothing
• activewear or swimwear
• custom-made clothing for a pre-existing condition
• clothing normally issued by an employer
• replacement of clothing that was damaged at the time of the transport accident injury

Continence

Continence equipment must be prescribed by a qualified continence nurse, and must be prescribed from our Contracted Supplier Equipment Lists (see Ordering equipment) using the Continence Prescription (Hospital discharge) Form or the Continence Prescription (Community) Form.

Prescriptions are considered valid for up to two years.

Footwear

Footwear or modifications will only be considered where a client is unable to wear their pre-injury footwear because of their transport accident injury. This is because footwear is an expense incurred regardless of a transport accident injury.

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of:

• Custom-made or orthopaedic footwear that is required because standard off the shelf footwear or pre-injury footwear cannot be worn due to the transport accident injury, or it does not support client’s rehabilitation needs.
• Modifications to a client’s  pre-injury footwear or off the shelf footwear.
• Footwear that is required to accommodate an orthosis, where a therapist has demonstrated that every attempt has been made to accommodate the orthosis in the client’s own footwear.

For these types of footwear, the TAC will only accept written requests from:

• an appropriately qualified medical specialist, such as an orthopaedic surgeon
• an orthotist
• a podiatrist

In relation to footwear, the TAC will not pay for:

• Footwear normally issued by an employer.
• Non-orthopaedic or standard off the shelf footwear that is not required to fit custom modifications or orthotics as a result of the client’s transport accident injuries. Examples include day-to-day sneakers, runners or work-related footwear.

For further information about orthotics, please refer to the TAC’s Prosthetist and orthotist guidelines.

Life support equipment

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of life support equipment, including artificial respirators and ventilators, humidifiers and enteral feed pumps.

Mainstream Multifunctional Technology (MMT)

Standard MMT devices, such as personal computers, tablets and smartphones, are considered to be a normal personal item and will not usually be paid for.

Please note:

• Mainstream multifunctional technology (MMT) means a device or service which is commercially available for everyday use by anyone, can perform multiple functions, and has not been especially designed for rehabilitative use or for disability purposes, but under this policy is being used for a rehabilitative or disability purpose.
• Devices refers to the hardware aspect of MMT, for example, touch screen tablet computers, smartphones, desktop or laptop computer hardware and related items.
• Software means programs or applications (apps) that are used on MMT devices and may require download from the internet to obtain and update.
• Internet services means an internet connection that allows the device to access software downloads and updates, as well as interact with online programs, websites, and other devices. An internet service is essential for downloading programs and updating the programs and applications, but is not necessarily essential for running software on the device

The TAC can consider paying the reasonable costs of MMT for clients who:

• Require the MMT as part of a goal-oriented rehabilitation program in which the recommendation is that the MMT will:
  • measurably increase independence, for example, via a reduction in need for support workers, and/or
  • measurably improve a deficit in communication.
• Can demonstrate the ability to effectively use MMT (both device and prescribed software) for the reasons it has been recommended.
• Do not own or have reasonable access to the requested MMT or other equipment that meets the identified needs.
• Require a MMT device due to an injury that means the TAC client cannot communicate in a usual way, such as:
  • acquired brain injury
  • quadriplegia
  • significantly reduced arm function
  • upper limb/hand amputation
  • brachial plexus palsy

The TAC can pay for the reasonable costs of:

• Standard model MMT devices with the minimum requirements to run the prescribed program or software.
• Software or apps that are prescribed to meet  client’s specific transport accident injury needs.
• Additional internet services only where required to access prescribed programs/apps.

The TAC will consider the reasonable costs for MMT devices to be the recommended retail price, and will not pay more than this amount.

Where a client requires the MMT equipment for a resolving condition, the TAC will not purchase the item, and will only consider paying the reasonable costs of hiring the item for the period until the condition has resolved.

The TAC will only accept requests for MMT equipment from a qualified speech pathologist or occupational therapist. These consultations can be paid in line with the TAC fee schedules for speech pathology and occupational therapy.

The TAC will not pay for:

• MMT that is not part of a goal-oriented rehabilitation plan
• costs associated with accessing the internet if a client has sufficient existing internet services that will enable them to access and use the prescribed software.
• insurance or warranty costs
• redeemable products, such as iTunes vouchers/cards
• consumables such as printer ink, paper, blank USBs and CD/DVDs
• telephone lines for the purpose of an internet installation
• costs of mobile telephone plans, telephone calls, or telephone services

Personal alarms and monitoring services (safety items)

Personal alarms and monitoring services can be useful for client who would like greater independence but require daily monitoring and support for medical reasons. The type of service or device will depend on client's needs and circumstances.

Personal alarms and monitoring services may include:

• A personal alarm which can be worn as a necklace pendant, watch or belt clip. Otherwise, a special sensitive button or 'blow switch' can be used where client has limited or ataxic movements.
• A receiver unit and the required components that are plugged into client's telephone line. This allows the signal to be received from the personal alarm and automatically dials the monitoring centre.
• The monitoring station, which provides the 24-hour monitoring by a third party. If client  needs assistance or if a regular 'check in' is missed, the nominated emergency contact/s will be notified.
• Bolton Clarke Response Service. This service only applies to patients who have no nominated emergency contacts.
• Medical alert devices (such as a medical alert bracelet, pendant, vial of life and/or wallet card) are worn by a patient, with details of their medical, supervision, and emergency instructions.
• Keysafes, which comprise the safe and mounting hardware. This could be the spin-dial or push-button version and mounted to a wall or located on a fence, railing or pipe. A keysafe can hold several keys and is accessed by entering a pin or combination.
• On-call attendant care, which is a remote service for patients who require a low level of care during the day and/or overnight, but do not require an attendant carer to be constantly present and/or sleep over in their home. See our Attendant care provider guidelines.

The TAC cannot pay for personal alarms that are not monitored by a monitoring station.

Room temperature control

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of room temperature control equipment when required to address difficulty regulating body temperature as a result of a transport accident injury. In most cases this would be a spinal cord lesion at or above the level of T6. In other exceptional cases, it must be medically confirmed that the transport accident injury has resulted in a permanent inability to regulate temperature.

The TAC can pay the reasonable costs of provision of equipment, installation, maintenance and increased consumption of gas or electricity associated with the running of an air conditioner, evaporative cooling unit or heater.

The TAC will only accept requests for room temperature control equipment from a consultant physician or specialist, as recognised by the Health Insurance Act (1973), who is able to confirm that the client’s injuries meet the medical criteria outlined above.

In relation to room temperature control equipment, we require the following information:

• Documentation of a spinal cord injury at or above the level of T6 or other exceptional cases where the transport accident injury has resulted in a permanent inability to regulate temperature.
• Eligibility for energy concessions, such as the life support machine electricity concession.
• Electricity consumption prior to the installation of the equipment, such as supplying a copy of the electricity or gas account to demonstrate pre injury usage. This can be compared to electricity consumption after the installation of the room temperature control equipment to identify any increased usage.
• The proportion of the electricity account related to client prior to their transport accident injury.

The TAC will not pay for equipment for areas of the home that the patient cannot access or does not access for activities of daily living

Sport and recreation

The TAC can consider paying the reasonable costs of modified or adapted equipment to enable participation in a sporting or leisure activity. Client’s individual circumstances will be taken into account in determining eligibility and reasonable costs. Client contributions may be required in some circumstances.

For a client who is able to return to their pre-injury activity, the TAC can pay the reasonable costs of adaptions to their own equipment.

For a client who is unable to return to their pre-injury activity, we can pay the reasonable costs of:

• Hire of sporting or recreational equipment for three months.
• Purchase of entry level equipment for one sporting or leisure activity where client can demonstrate commitment to continued participation.
• Purchase of equipment for subsequent sporting or recreational pursuits. If client has discontinued the previous activity in favour of another, it would be reasonable for the patient to contribute the trade-in value of TAC-paid equipment toward the new equipment.
• Making a contribution towards elite or advanced equipment where required.

In relation to sporting and recreational equipment, the TAC  requires the following information:

• Demonstrated commitment to the sport or recreational activity such as club membership, regular attendance and/or evidence of participation.
• Reasons why basic entry level equipment will not be sufficient, when requesting elite or advanced equipment.

In relation to sporting and recreational equipment, the TAC will not pay for:

• Vehicles used for sport or recreational use. See our Vehicle Modifications policy.
• Optional features, such as metallic paint or tool kits.
• Maintenance and repairs, except for sporting wheelchairs.
• Replacement of sporting or recreational equipment that was damaged in the transport accident.
• Sport or recreational clothing.
• Participation costs, such as court hire, entry fees or coaching.

The TAC will only accept requests for sporting and recreational equipment from a qualified physiotherapist or occupational therapist. These consultations can be paid in line with the TAC’s fee schedules for physiotherapy and occupational therapy.

For information about sporting and recreational prostheses, see the TAC’s Prosthetist and orthotist guidelines.

The TAC uses both contracted and non-contracted suppliers to provide clients with clinically justified rehabilitation and medical equipment. Where appropriate, suppliers also offer maintenance, repairs and installation services.

Contracted suppliers provide state-wide equipment coverage as well as interstate coverage where required. Treating health professionals and TAC clients are encouraged to visit contracted suppliers, as they offer demonstrations, fittings, trials and expert advice on rehabilitation equipment. Contracted suppliers provide Equipment Lists (see below) to enable treating health professionals and TAC clients to order the rehabilitation and medical equipment they need.

For information on TAC's contracted suppliers, please visit:

• Aidacare
• Country Care Group
• Independence Australia (Mobility Aids)
• Independent Living Specialists

For continence equipment:

• Independence Australia

Non-contracted suppliers are used to source specialised or highly customised items of equipment or items that are not included on the Contracted Equipment Lists.

Rehabilitation equipment Lists

The Equipment Lists are a resource for treating health professionals when recommending equipment to their patients. They include items that support functional improvement and/or independence for TAC clients.

• Aidacare equipment list XLSX, 2.45MB
• Country Care Group equipment list XLSX, 0.27MB
• Independence Australia (Mobility Aids) equipment list XLSX, 0.18MB
• Independent Living Specialists equipment list XLSX, 0.27MB

Continence, Nutritional Supplements and Wound Care Equipment List

The Continence, Nutritional Supplements and Wound Care Equipment Lists are a resource developed for treating health professionals to use when recommending equipment and products for their patients. Each list includes items that support continence, nutritional or wound care management and/or independence for TAC clients.

Independence Australia is the sole contracted supplier for Continence, Nutritional Supplements and Wound Care equipment and products. Please contact Independence Australia on 1300 788 855 and ask to be connected with the TAC Customer Service Team.

For a description of Independence Australia products visit http://store.independenceaustralia.com/

• Continence Equipment List XLSX, 0.2MB
• Nutritional Supplements Equipment List XLSX, 0.05MB
• Wound Care Equipment List XLSX, 0.11MB

Safeguarding support - concerns and complaints provides TAC clients and the community with a pathway to raise concerns or complaints about the quality and safety of TAC funded services.

The TAC uses the following principles to make socially and economically responsible decisions in line with the Transport Accident Act 1986:

1. Entitled

A TAC client is entitled to equipment if the TAC has accepted liability for the accident-related injury that relates to the medical and rehabilitation equipment.

2. Reasonable

When deciding if medical and rehabilitation equipment is reasonable, the TAC considers whether the cost and need of the equipment/service is necessary and reasonable in relation to suitable standard model and client need/ circumstances. The TAC considers the reasonable cost of these items to be the recommended retail price.

Please refer to the Client contribution section as below.

*Client contribution
A client will be required to contribute to the cost of equipment where:

• the client selects equipment that is more expensive than a suitable standard model
• the equipment would be required regardless of the transport accident injury
• the equipment is only partially related to a client’s transport accident injury

3. Clinical Justification

When deciding if medical and rehabilitation equipment is clinically justified, the TAC considers whether:

• it is clinically appropriate for the client’s transport accident injuries and presentation
• it complies with the principles of the Clinical Framework (see guidance on clinical best practice in the policy principles section.)
  • the equipment results in a measurable benefit to the injured person
  • the request adopts a biopsychosocial approach
  • it empowers the client to self-manage their injury
  • the treater implements goals focused on optimising function, participation and return to work/health
  • the request is based on the best available research evidence.
• the request and cost are appropriate in relation to the client’s condition and their recovery progress. These factors are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

There must be clinical justification that the equipment will measurably improve a client's:

• function
• independence
• level of pain or discomfort
• mobility
• community involvement (through vocational, educational or leisure activities)
• communication
• safety

in relation to their transport accident-related injuries.

4. Outcome Focused

When deciding if the result for medical and rehabilitation equipment is outcome focused, the TAC considers whether:

• support a TAC client's rehabilitation and recovery of their transport accident-related injuries i.e. promotes function and assists in recovery of their transport accident-related injuries or
• assist TAC clients who have acquired a severe injury and permanent disability in a transport accident to get their lives back on track or
• achieving individualised recovery or participation goals that are meaningful to the client.

For more information on TAC decision making, see the ‘How we make decisions’ page.