What is the SWD Standardised Care Need Assessment (AI)? A Complete Guide to

With Hong Kong's ageing population, seniors' demand for social welfare services is increasing. The Social Welfare Department's Standardised Care Need Assessment Mechanism (commonly known as AI) is the crucial first step to accessing government-subsidised long-term care services. This article comprehensively explains the assessment content, application process, waiting times, and appeal mechanism to help you plan elderly care arrangements smoothly.

What is the Standardised Assessment (AI)?It is an internationally recognised assessment tool designated by the SWD. Accredited assessors (typically nurses or social workers) interview the elderly person to evaluate them across multiple dimensions including health, self-care ability, cognition, and environment, thereby determining their care needs and eligibility. The assessment results determine whether the elderly person qualifies for subsidised services such as Integrated Home Care Services, Enhanced Bought Place Scheme, and Care and Attention Home places.

Application Process and Waiting Time

1. Referral and Application: Referral by a doctor, social worker, or service unit to the SWD's Standardised Care Need Assessment Management Office.

2. Arranging the Assessment: The SWD arranges for an accredited assessor to conduct a face-to-face assessment.

3. Waiting Time: The process from application to assessment completion typically takes several weeks. However, the waiting time from assessment completion to actual service allocation varies greatly depending on the service type, ranging from several months to several years.

Complete Guide to the Appeal MechanismIf dissatisfied with the assessment result, family members can lodge an appeal within one month of receiving the result. The appeal process has two levels:

• Re-assessment: Request a second assessment conducted by a different assessor.

• Appeal Board: If still dissatisfied, a written appeal can be submitted to the Elderly Services Appeal Board, which will review whether the assessment procedure adhered to the standards.