Temporary removal of mandatory trial
As part of MASS’s commitment to quality service provision, MASS Equipment Services is temporarily removing the mandatory requirement to trial some basic equipment items funded by MASS.
The removal of mandatory trial requirements for the below equipment categories will be trialled up to 30 June 2024. A review will be undertaken at that time, to determine the benefits of permanent changes to trialling requirements.
The temporary change is in response to challenges for applicants in locating a therapist/prescriber to assist them with provision of basic equipment funded through MASS and to reduce timeframes in obtaining equipment required for day-to-day mobility and daily living activities.
The equipment categories included in the temporary removal for mandatory trial are:
- Bath Transfer Bench (NEW)
- Non-Standard Bathboard (NEW)
- Static chairs/Stools (Existing)
- Static Over Toilet Aids (Existing)
- Wheeled Walking Aid (NEW)
- Basic Manual Wheelchair – no accessories except anti tips. (NEW)
Important assessment information for prescribers:
- All equipment products under the MASS Standing Offer Arrangement continue to be available for trial from the SOA supplier/agent, where deemed necessary by the prescriber.
- Where the requested product/model from the above categories has not been trialled with an applicant and/or in their home environment, the prescriber is required to review specifications and complete a functional assessment, including assessing transportation requirements. This is to ensure compatibility and safety with the client’s needs, a suitable fit within the home environment and where necessary, include consultation with relevant stakeholders.
- Where the non-trialled product is deemed unsuitable for use by the applicant, they should contact their prescriber in the first instance. The prescriber should contact MASS with details to discuss a resolution. Prescribers should be able to demonstrate to MASS that reasonable clinical practice was utilised in the item’s prescription.
- MASS and MASS Standing Offer Arrangement suppliers/agents are not obligated to provide an exchange or replacement product where the non-trialled prescribed product is not suitable.
For more information refer to:
Contact: MASS Equipment
Phone: 07 3136 3524
Email: MASS-Equipment@health.qld.gov.au