Funding My SpeechEasy Device: What are the Options? The SpeechEasy device continues to serve more and more patients around the world, helping those who stutter manage their fluency and increase their confidence. But what are the options available for someone who has tested favorably as a candidate for the device, but may not have access to funds to purchase a SpeechEasy? Janus Development Group is committed to determining the best solutions for successful third-party reimbursements, as well as continuing to pursue and employ viable financing options. Both of these efforts will hopefully increase the possibility for more and more patients to have access to SpeechEasy. Currently, in addition to payment by cash/check or credit card, the following are possible sources of funding for a SpeechEasy device. Financing Most SpeechEasy providers have established a relationship with Care Credit, a company that can finance the purchase of a device, depending on the patient's credit history. Although not all locations have this feature available, efforts are ongoing for more and more providers to have this financing option available. Third-Party Reimbursement: Insurance Reaching the decision makers within the insurance agency can be one of the biggest challenges when seeking reimbursement for the purchase of your SpeechEasy device. Those who seek reimbursement from their insurance companies sometimes receive full reimbursement, sometimes partial and sometimes none. Regardless of the outcome, it is often a long and arduous process, requiring a willingness of the patient to participate in multiple appeal levels that can take from 9 months to a year to resolve. SpeechEasy has contracted with Healthcare Reimbursement Solutions Inc. to help you, at no charge, seek reimbursement from your insurance provider. Since SpeechEasy is a new device, guidelines will vary depending on the health insurance provider. Unless you speak with your insurance provider in advance, you may be expected to pay the full cost of your device out-of-pocket. Different insurance companies will have different qualifications and requirements. If you are unsure whether your insurance company will provide reimbursement, the best approach, when possible, is to consider the following tips: Obtain a referral from your doctor prior to purchasing the device (some denials have been reversed when a physician referral was obtained retroactively). Demonstrate that fluency cannot be appropriately managed by conventional approaches. Provide documentation of clinical studies or testimony from experts that express that dysfluency cannot be appropriately managed. Any documentation available that will demonstrate that medical coverage from other payers shows the device is accepted treatment and not experimental. Janus Development Group will follow-up to provide as much information as possible on this important, ongoing issue. In the meantime, if you are seeking insurance reimbursement, consult with your SLP about options, including the use of a reimbursement solutions company sponsored by Janus. Employers More and more people are finding that their employers are willing to assist them with the purchase of a device! Depending on the size of your company, your profession and whether or not you can make a case for fluency improving your productivity as an employee, you may be eligible for your company's sponsor of your receiving the device. Local Civic Organizations (Rotary Club, Lion's Club, Easter Seals, etc.) There are civic organizations within every community that have funds available for this type of assistance. Your local Rotary Club, Lion's Club, Easter Seals, etc are often eager to help. Vocational Rehabilitation Services / Veteran's Administration Vocational Rehabilitation Services (also called DOR, or the Department of Rehabilitation in some states, California, for instance), are state funded, state managed groups. Their goal is to provide whatever services are necessary, for an individual to be employed or gain better employment. This can include: skills training, education, job search assistance, etc. In most states, this can also include anything that will help with job-related communication as well. Contact your local office to inquire about reimbursement or the possibility of financial assistance prior to purchase. The Veteran's Administration is an applicable resource for all persons retired from military service. If you qualify in this category, contact your local VA Office to find out more about the possibility of the VA supporting the purchase of a SpeechEasy device. For more information on funding your purchase of a SpeechEasy device, go to http://www.speecheasy.com/service_financialassistance.html. << BACK TO NEWSLETTER