Yes — services can and do increase

Home care is not a one-time allocation that remains fixed indefinitely. As a person's functional autonomy changes, their care plan can be updated to reflect new needs.

This happens through a reassessment — a clinical review of the person's current situation that results in an updated care plan. If the reassessment confirms increased needs, additional services can be added.

What needs to change for services to increase

Services typically increase when:

• A health condition has worsened (e.g., Parkinson's, COPD, heart failure, dementia)
• The person has had a fall or injury that reduces their functional independence
• A caregiver who previously filled gaps is no longer available
• A new nursing or therapy need has emerged (wound care, insulin management)
• The person has been hospitalized and returns home with greater needs

The key is demonstrating that circumstances are materially different from the last assessment. Continuity of medical documentation — physician letters, specialist reports, therapy assessments — is central to this.

The CLSC does not automatically increase services

The CLSC will not monitor your situation and proactively add hours. You or a family member must initiate a reassessment request.

This is why it matters to:

• Document functional changes over time
• Get physicians and specialists to put changes in writing
• Contact your care coordinator when the situation changes — don't wait for the scheduled review

If the reassessment does not result in more services

If you disagree with the outcome, you have the right to request a review of the decision. See the articles on disagreeing with a care plan and making a complaint.