You start with a Needs Assessment - This is usually initiated through the residents GP on request from the resident themselves or their family. The GP sends a referral to the NASC (Needs Assessment Service Coordinators) at the local DHB. The Needs Assessors process the request, book an appointment with the residents and/or family and then complete the assessment which determines what level of care the resident will be at i.e. home care package, rest home or private hospital. This assessment also ascertains the funding option available to the residents and the Needs Assessor supplies the resident with the paperwork and the information to proceed.