AAC in Vermont

Important information about a change in availability of iPads as communication devices!

In Vermont, there have been some big changes in access to Medicaid funded iPads (aka “mobile communication device”) as speech generating devices/AAC. VT Medicaid requires that a certified “vendor” (one that they have certified), dispenses the iPad for communication. The vendor for the previous several years, Herron & Smith, was sold to a different company that no longer dispenses iPads. VT Medicaid was unsuccessful finding a replacement vendor to certify for dispensing iPads for AAC.

In order to continue to make iPads available as AAC, VT Medicaid has implemented an alternative option for Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) who are enrolled as Medicaid providers. SLPs can now personally dispense iPads, communication apps and required accessories (i.e. cases, keyguards etc.) and submit for reimbursement to VT Medicaid. This is done by submitting a bill using the VT Medicaid Gainwell billing system. This includes some additional reimbursement on top of the actual equipment costs to compensate for “nonbillable” time associated with the device submission (i.e. funding paperwork, device set-up, etc.). To confirm, SLPs must be enrolled as Medicaid providers with Vermont Medicaid, they must complete a 30-day trial with the AAC device and submit the evaluation paperwork for prior authorization (same as the current process) and the SLP must purchase the recommended iPad, communication app, and additional accessories and then submit an invoice through Gainwell.

This could understandably present as a barrier to many SLPs, particularly those working in schools. There are currently several iPad-based devices available from dedicated AAC speech generating device companies that can circumvent the need to purchase “off the shelf” iPads as speech generating devices. Purchase from a dedicated device company has additional benefits of a 5-year warranty, easily available technical support, and often more robust cases and speakers. In addition, these companies have Funding Specialists who will assist with submission of funding paperwork to insurance.

PRC-Saltillo ViaPro (LAMP Words for Life and TouchChat)
Tobii Dynavox Navio (TD Snap)
Smartbox - Numotion L-Series (Grid for iPad)
Forbes Rehab Solutions - Numotion Proslate (multiple apps)
Ablenet QuickTalker Freestyle (multiple apps)