System Navigation
Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with a neuromuscular condition or have been managing one for years, System Navigation is here to help. This service connects you with the right supports and services when you need them, with the help of a dedicated Navigator who guides you through the process – saving you time and effort, all at no cost to you.
Eligibility:
The system navigation program is available to people living in Western Australia who have a neuromuscular condition or are awaiting a diagnosis of a suspected neuromuscular condition.
What System Navigation Covers:
Our navigation services span not only health and disability but also NDIS, Centrelink, advocacy, equipment, transport, education, housing, employment and mental health, anything you require assistance with.
Examples of how our navigators help:
Our experienced navigators can help with any support or service you need. Specific examples include; help with accessing NDIS or aged care, recommendations for mental health support, awareness around subsidies for example carers allowance and companion cards, accessing equipment and awareness of social programs available.
Health professionals can refer people to the program or you can self refer! Click here to complete the form.
Why system navigation?:
In 2020, a community survey identified a key gap in the services and supports for the rare, genetic and undiagnosed community in WA, which was a lack of coordination of information and care in the service system. From this finding, we undertook extensive research and resource development (with the support of our community consultation committee) over a period of 12 months. We then launched a pilot system navigation program in May 2023. Over 60 people have now gone through the program.
The system navigation program has successfully secured 3 more years of funding which will allow us to continue, consolidate and refine the existing service as well as expand our reach into regional and remote areas in WA.
Outcomes for Participants:
Recent evaluation of the program has shown that participants feel more emotionally and mentally supported. Participants also reported feeling more motivated to take action and felt less alone.
This service is free of charge, as we believe in providing Support for Life. Self-referrals are welcome! Click below to start your self-referral or provider referral.
If you have any questions, please email us at systemnav@neuromuscularwa.org.au.
“The system navigation service provided someone to spend time seeking support information for me. It gave a sense that someone cared about how I was coping. I felt less alone in my battle with increased disability.”
“Yes, the service helped me hugely. On the action plan they put ACROD permit, which I wouldn’t have done without them. They gave me all the information to print out and give to the doctor. I wouldn’t have done it without them.”
“It’s a fantastic initiative that provides support not only to patients and families with neuromuscular disease , but also clinical teams with limited capacity and relatively limited expertise regarding community support services.”
“The system navigation service provided someone to spend time seeking support information for me. It gave a sense that someone cared about how I was coping. I felt less alone in my battle with increased disability.”
“There is a clear gap between hospital services and government services and Neuromuscular WA helps fill this and provide a social network for patients.”