Assessment of dependency status

The National Health Fund (CNS) forwards the applicant's file to the State Office for Assessment and Monitoring of the long-term care insurance (AEC), which is the body responsible for ascertaining the applicant's dependency status and determining the degree (intensity) of dependency.

The applicant's dependency status is assessed by an AEC healthcare professional, at the applicant's home or at the AEC, or in a care and assistance facility. The applicant will be notified of the date of the evaluation appointment.

In principle, the healthcare professional is main contact person for the applicant's file and the person responsible for its follow up. Applicants will be given the healthcare professional's contact details at the time of the assessment.

During the evaluation, the dependent person's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) will be assessed. The person applying for the benefits will be questioned and, if need be, a close relative or friend may be questioned as well.

After the assessment, the main contact person will prepare a statement of the care and assistance to which the dependent person is entitled per week. This standard statement will also be used to determine whether or not the person reaches the entry threshold of 3.5 hours a week of care and assistance for activities of daily living (ADLs).

What should be done if a person living at home has a direct need for care and assistance?

The person in question can contact a provider of their choice directly (through a care and assistance network) for details on the conditions of the service.

If, after the assessment conducted by the AEC, the applicant is recognised as dependent, the care and assistance provided by the professional service (benefits in kind) will be due from the date of application.

What should be done if the person has a direct need for assistive technology or home adaptations?

For all queries in connection with assistive technology or home/car adaptations, interested parties can contact the AEC's "Assistive Technology" Helpline:

• Telephone number: (+352) 247-86040
• Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 11:30 and from 13:30 to 16:30

IMPORTANT: Potential beneficiaries should not purchase assistive devices/equipment – e.g. wheelchairs, hospital beds, walking aids, etc. – or commence home adaptations on their own initiative. They must first obtain approval from the AEC. The law makes no provision for retroactive coverage of expenses.