AAC Funding

By Gretchen Bright, BS

As a consultant, I work with many speech therapists during a very critical time…AAC EVALUATION TIME! This can be a nerve wracking experience for SLPs. PRC has a fantastic Funding Department and Regional Consultants always available to help make the experience a little more comforting. With many state, federal and private insurances working to cut costs, denials and deferrals do seem to be more routine these days. Medical justification has to be solid and overwhelming. That can be difficult if the client being evaluated is already an AAC device user. If a device is already present, no matter what the age of it, it can be challenging to get approval for a new one. If you find yourself in the position of trying provide strong medical justification to replace a preexisting device, here are some points to consider for your evaluation.

1. Capacitive Screen

   Due to the nature of a capacitive screen (which utilizes conductive properties of the human body or objects to activate the screen), the touch is lighter on the Accent devices vs. PRC’s older equipment. Prior to the Accent line, all devices were activated via a resistive touch, which required a harder press by the user.

2. Language System

   PRC offers several new language systems that have been released within the last 3 or 4 years. Those language options include: Unity 28 one-hit/sequenced, Unity 36 one-hit/sequenced, LAMP Words For Life, and CoreScanner. The ability to create custom key sizes and grid sizes are also now available on PRC devices. If any of these options allow the user greater access in using the device, this can often work as medical justification.

3. Letter of Serviceability

   PRC’s Service Department can issue a Letter of Serviceability for older equipment. The letter explains why the device is out-of-date and what the Service Department’s policies are regarding old equipment.

4. Cosmetic Changes

   Over the years, the hardware options have changed immensely. These cosmetic changes could enhance a client’s day-to-day use of the device. Possible items to consider are: the weight of the device, presence of a handle, brighter display, dynamic display, larger screen, better keyguard, etc. All of these items could be used as possible points of medical justification.

5. Technical Changes

   PRC’s NuPoint (head tracking) and NuEye (eye gaze) may allow for far more accuracy for the user, therefore providing enough medical justification for a new device. This would have to be determined by doing a side-by-side comparison of the old and new system. The technological advances in PRC’s head tracking and eye gaze are outstanding.

6. Changes in Medical History

   If there has been any change in the client’s medical condition that would warrant the need for a new device, this could also be used in the report.

A thorough, robust AAC evaluation is the best way to ensure that your client receives the device that’s best for them. Using the resources that PRC has will help in that process. Do not ever hesitate to contact your local Regional Consultant. We answer funding related questions everyday, and we will work with you to help make your report complete. Although we can’t ever guarantee approvals, we do all that we can to advocate for your client and help you reach the finish line of your report!

For more information call your regional consultant or check the Funding Assistant on the PRC website.