Capacity Assessments - how to obtain one????

Sick of Red Tape
Sick of Red Tapeon Sunday, October 22 2017
3 Comments

OK so as a result of a massive stroke, my dear friend was deemed as not having "capacity" to think and act for himself - which at the time is not surprising due to his severe condition and extreme aphasia. 

Eventually he transferred home, with care.  He was formally assess, but because he was septic and had a number of other issues & distractions, he failed the assessment.  No one knew he was even being assessed, he didn't even try, and it was incredibly poor (& inconsiderate) timing.  When we requested a re-assessment, we were flatly refused.

 

Now, almost 3 years post stroke, and having improved slowly every day since - how the heck do we get him assessed again?

Everyone I ask seems to have no clue!!

 

Sure we can pay for a private neuropsychologist to perform the capacity assessment - but we cannot afford that $$$$

 

Everyone who knows him, can attest that he is sound, rational, practical, considerate & plans things in detail.  We have statements from his doctors, we have statements from his care workers, but that's not enough proof for QCAT that he has capacity to make his own decisions.  

ANY info would be appreciated, before QCAT and the Public Trustee ruin him financially and he ends up in an aged care facility totally unsuited to his needs and recovery.

3 Responses
Nina Wilde avatar
Nina Wilde

Hi 'sick of red tape'

 

Wow - great looking out for your dear friend, I too hope you find a way through this red tape. How very difficult for you all as there seem to be no straight answers.

 

Have you tried calling Strokeline 1800 787 653 to ask? 

 

There is also a section on here where you can ask a question to or somebody from Strokeline may answer on this Forum.

 

Good luck

 

Sue

 

Michelle avatar
Michelle

I would ask a local politician to help me navigate a broken system. It seems to speed up the flow of information and get you off the never-ending waiting list.

 

I dont think survivors or their carers should have to go through more than they have already endured. Let someone else do the research and fight for you and your friend. 

 

Best of luck to you xxx

StrokeLine avatar
StrokeLine

Hi Sick of Red Tape

 

Thanks for your question. As you know, legal systems can be very complex to navigate so I would suggest that your friend seeks legal advice before arranging any assessments or reviews. Check out the Community Legal Centres website:

http://communitylegalqld.org.au/

 

Michelle's suggestion that your friend to contact his local member of parliament is also a great one. An important part of every Member of Parliament’s job is to represent the people of their electorate. Your local MP is a good source of advice, and can raise your issues with the relevant Minister or government department. For health-related matters, call your local state government MP.

 

With kind regards, Jude from StrokeLine

 

 

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