Do any of the CA people on this listerv have any insight for the writer below?
Thanks
Alisa
Alisa Brownlee, ATP
Assistive Technology Specialist
ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) Association, National Office and Greater Philadelphia Chapter
Conference Chair, RESNA 2014 Convention
215-631-1877
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Mark you calendars!
RESNA’s 2014 Conference is “Racing Towards Excellence in Assistive Technology”
June 11-15, 2014—JW Marriott Indianapolis, IN
Hello,
I am a graduate student in the Public Administration program at California State University, Bakersfield. I am working on a policy issue that relates to funding
iPads through Medi-Cal.
I have contacted someone from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) who directed me to policy which disqualifies iPads as a Durable Medical Equipment
(DME) but I believe there are other options that an iPads can qualify under such as an ALC or an AAC which fall under SGDs.
However, the response was clear,
"Medicare does not cover iPads/tablets as speech generating devices. If you should have further questions or concerns regarding the Medicare program, you may contact the Beneficiary Contact Center at 1-800-MEDICARE
(1-800-633-4227), TTY:
1-877-486-2048 where a representative will be available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week."
Something doesn't seem right, here. Can anyone give me your experience with funding for these type of devices for your clients in California?
Your response is much solicited and appreciated.
Heidi Forsythe
Graduate Student in the MPA Program
California State University, Bakersfield
(661) 348-8194