Care Planning FAQs

What is a care plan?

Care plans provide direction for personalised care for a client/patient. A care plan is organised by the individuals' specific needs and incorporates the continuity of their care. In its simplest form, the care plan is a means of communicating and organising the actions related to an individuals' care.

Are care plans all the same?

A care plan should be individual to the patient. Ideally, where possible they should have as much involvement in the development of the plan as they reasonably can. Care and support should help the patient be able to:

• live independently
• retain as much control over their life as possible
• have the best quality of life possible
• keep as much dignity and respect as possible
• participate in society on an equal level with others

What must a care plan cover?

A care plan (also known as a care and support plan, or support plan if you are the carer) sets out how care and support needs will be met. It must set out the following:

• any needs identified by a period of assessment
• whether the needs meet the eligibility criteria (including the extent if met)
• the desired outcomes of the suggested care and support (in conjunction with the patient)
• the personal budget associated with the care
• information and advice regarding what can be done to reduce the needs in question, and to prevent any delay in the development of such needs in future
• the needs that the authority is going to meet - and how this will be achieved
• support or requirements that the carer may need in achieving the above aims