Assistive Technology

AT can be hardware, such as prosthetics or walkers, or it can be software, such as screen readers or communication devices. AT can also include items that help people with household tasks, like cooking or cleaning. Some people use AT for recreational activities or hobbies.

Examples of AT include:

• Wheelchairs
• Screen reading software
• Walkers
• Shower chair
• Grab bars
• Talking devices, such as a talking thermostat
• Magnifying glass

Each person requires different types of AT. This often begins with an AT assessment. Assessments are typically done by professionals who are trained to assess the needs of the individual and match AT to those needs. The team may include general and special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, family doctor and other specialists as needed.

You may be able to try some AT to see what works for you though a loan closet, Disability Network, or Michigan Disability Rights Coalition.

It depends on the type of AT, how it is used, and the user. Some types of AT may be simple and inexpensive, while other types can be very expensive.

• Private health insurance
• Government programs, such as Medicaid or Medicare
• School systems
• Rehabilitation and vocational programs
• Employers
• Veterans Administration

Many health insurance plans will cover certain types of AT and associated AT services. The types of AT covered by health insurance can vary depending on your specific policy and plan.

Some common categories of AT that may be covered, include:

• Mobility Aides: such as wheelchairs, walkers, scooters
• Prosthetic and Orthotic Devices: such as prosthetic limbs, braces, splints
• Communication Devices: such as augmentative or alternative communication devices
• Hearing and Vision Aids:  such as specialized hearing aids, glasses, magnifiers
• Medical Equipment: such as hospital beds, ventilators, and oxygen equipment
• AT for Independent Living: such as environmental control units or smart home systems

To find out if your health insurance plan covers the type of AT and AT services you need, the following steps may be helpful:

• Consult with your healthcare provider: They can assess your medical needs and recommend appropriate AT and AT services. Then work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure that you have the necessary documentation to support your need for AT and AT services. This might include evaluations and assessments, treatment notes and other information from your medical record.
• Review your insurance plan documents: These documents should provide an overview of the types of AT and AT services that are covered by your plan. If you don’t have a copy of your insurance plan coverage, you may be able to find it on your insurance provider’s website.  Your insurance company may refer to AT by a different name, such as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) or Medical Supplies.
• Call your insurance provider: If you have questions about your insurance coverage for AT and AT services, call your insurance provider. They can tell you what is covered under your plan, as well as any limitations or exclusions that may apply. Be sure to have your insurance card handy, because you will likely need to provide your member ID or subscriber number when you call.
• Check for pre-authorization requirements: Some insurance plans may require pre-authorization or pre-approval for certain types of AT and AT services. Check with your insurance provider to determine if any pre-authorization requirements apply and how to obtain the necessary authorization.

You may be covered by a single policy or by multiple policies, so make sure you are familiar all of your health coverage!

Insurance denial of AT or AT services can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Lack of medical necessity: Insurance plans typically require that AT and AT services be deemed medically necessary to be covered. If the insurance company determines the device or service is not medically necessary, they may deny coverage.
• Excluded items: Insurance plans may have exclusions for certain types of AT devices or services. For example, a plan may not cover AT used for recreational purposes, such as a specialized bicycle or wheelchair used for sports.
• Out-of-network providers: Insurance plans may have a network of approved providers, and if you receive AT or AT services from a provider who is not in the network, the insurance company may deny coverage.
• Documentation issues: Insurance plans may require documentation from your healthcare provider to support the need for AT and AT services. This would include the prescription, evaluations, assessments, and other required forms. If the required documentation is not provided or is incomplete, the insurance company may deny coverage.
• Cost: Insurance plans may have limits on coverage amounts or may require cost-sharing, such as copays or deductibles. If the cost of the device or service is deemed too high, the insurance company may deny coverage or require you to pay a higher amount out of pocket.

If your insurance denied your request for AT or AT services:

• Review the denial notice: Carefully review the denial notice from your insurance provider to understand the reasons why your claim was denied. Look for any mistakes or inaccuracies in the decision and gather any additional documentation or information that could support your claim. Pay careful attention to time limits to file an appeal.
• Contact your healthcare provider: Reach out to your healthcare provider to ask for their support in appealing the decision. Your provider can help you gather additional documentation or provide a written statement supporting your need for AT or AT services.
• File an appeal: Follow the procedures outlined by your insurance provider for filing an appeal. This may involve submitting a written request or completing a specific form. Be sure to include all relevant documentation and information to support your claim.
• Be clear and concise: In your appeal letter, be clear and concise in explaining why you believe the claim should be covered. Use specific examples and reference any medical documentation or other evidence that supports your case.
• Be persistent: Don’t give up if your appeal is denied. You may be able to file additional appeals or pursue other legal options.
• Consider seeking outside help: If you are having difficulty navigating the appeals process, consider seeking outside help. This could include working with an advocate or consulting a healthcare attorney.

Parents or school staff can request an AT evaluation from the school. Schools must provide an evaluation to see if your child requires AT. The need for AT devices and AT services is determined at your child’s IEP team meeting. If the team determines that your child is in need of AT or AT services, a statement of the type and amount should be included in your child’s IEP or 504 plan.

Tips:

• Make your request in writing when asking for an AT evaluation for your child.
• Make sure all AT needs are written into your child’s IEP or 504 plan.
• Your child’s right to receive AT in school, includes AT services, such as selecting or acquiring the AT device.

Myths and Facts Surrounding Assistive Technology Devices

Begin by letting your employer know that you need AT to do your job. There are several laws that require employers to accommodate and provide AT as a reasonable accommodation, including the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. AT that helps you do your job could possibly qualify as reasonable accommodation.

• Connect you with AT resources.
• Provide you with information about your rights.
• In some cases, we may assist you with writing appeals or filing complaints.