Community First Choice-Yearly Stipend of $550 & other funds
If you are on Community First Choice, you have access to funding for Assistive Technology (AT) Devices that increase the individual’s independence. There is a limit of $550 per fiscal year. Contact Sue Pederson to learn more.
Assistive Technology
How?
The Arc of Tri-Cities is currently contracted with the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) to provide Specialized Equipment and Supplies to eligible individuals.
If you are on Community First Choice you have access to funding for Assistive Technology (AT) Devices that increase the individual's independence.
There is a limit of $550 per fiscal year.
If you're unsure if you qualify, contact your case resource manager at DDA and ask about this service.
How Do I Know What to Purchase?
There are many resources on where and how to find technology that will help you. Technology can include equipment that helps increase independence. Examples not only include technology but specialized spoons, bidets, etc…
Hint- from DDA Case-Manager- When requested by case-manager
The doctor or Physical therapist needs to be complete
Explaining the disability
Explaining the need and how it will make them more independent
Pictures of the bathroom and toilet to be used
They have to list the make and model they are requesting and why this model is better for this specific client.
If there is a cheaper model they need to justify why the client needs the more expensive one.
DETAIL is important in the request and pictures are normally required.
It has to be something that isn’t covered by Medicaid and for Kids that is challenging because even things on their list of no-goes are sometimes being approved because it is medically necessary so sometimes a Medicaid denial is still required.
(EPSDT requires things that are by their definition of medically necessary to be covered by Medicaid- however this many times takes appeals and working with a managed care coordinator.)
The assessment needs to reflect the need so it helps to have this discussion of why it would be needed when they have the assessment.
Anything that isn’t on that no go Medicaid list in the wacs will have to have a denial from any private insurance and Medicaid
Informing Families Building Trust has tips, resources, and information to help with your questions on Assistive Technology.
Click Here For Tips, Resources, or Info
Click Here for Information on purchase limitations (WAC 388-106-0274)
Click HERE for The Arc Tech Toolbox (Range of Useful Devices and Reviews)
Instructions
All charges, including taxes and shipping, must remain at $550 or under.
Contact your case-manager for specific instructions.
Recommendations From a Professional?
To get Assistive Technology, you should contact your physician and ask for a referral for an evaluation by a speech, occupational, or physical therapist. The therapist will recommend the right technology and help you learn how to use it once you get it. Assistive Technology is purchased using your annual allotment.
Speech Therapists and Occupational Therapists can be a valuable asset in knowing what technology might help you the most.
Our Partner Speech Therapist is:
Ryan Edwards. MA, CCC-SLP
Achieve Center Pediatric Therapy
509-619-7397
Questions?
Contact our team at The Arc of Tri-Cities, if you have any questions or would like to know more information Email: suep@arcoftricities.com
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