Domiciliary Care

In reply to Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (3 August 2016). (Estimates Committee A)

The Hon. L.A. VLAHOS (Taylor—Minister for Disabilities, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse): I am advised:

During 2015-16, waiting times to supply wheelchairs, following receipt of the request at the Domiciliary Equipment Service (DES), ranged from an average of less than two days for basic, readily-available wheelchairs to an average of 80 days for more complex, customised wheelchairs.

All repair calls from clients are responded to by a 24-hour hotline. During the four months between the 1 March 2016 to 30 June 2016, the average repair completion time for all equipment types was 2.2 days. Delays can arise if spare parts are unavailable, but at all times DES staff and contractors attempt to keep clients informed about delays and can arrange emergency loan items in urgent situations.