I’ve just been tested for a SpeechEasy device, and I’m ready to place my order. Payment up front is not an option for me. Where do I go from here to purchase my device?
This is the kind of question a person seeking fluency is lucky to have, since it hopefully means that testing went well with the SpeechEasy device, and enhanced fluency is just a few steps away.
Since funding and financing are such personal issues, it is important to evaluate each option carefully, and be sure to select a plan that works best for you.
Each funding program has its pros and cons. That’s why we created this article, as a resource for those of you considering your many options for purchasing a SpeechEasy device.
For years, options have been limited to either a full payment up front; financing through a credit card (which can include higher interest rates), or a personal loan from a bank. Today, there are many more choices to choose from, as you will see in the chart below.
Janus will soon have the ability to offer its clients a direct leasing program. This program, designed specifically to meet the needs of a SpeechEasy user, has features that make obtaining the device easier than ever, including lower, up-front payments and will be widely available starting August 1st, 2007. This is especially important for clients who have limited incomes, often because they are either still in school, or are just graduating and are seeking to enhance their fluency while looking for their first professional job.
What is the SpeechEasy Leasing Program?
The down payments for the SpeechEasy Leasing Program range from $1229-$1749, depending on the type of model and plan selected by the client. All plans are for 48 months. In addition, monthly payments clients can expect to pay range from a low $86 to $121 – again depending on which model and plan is selected.
At the end of the lease, the client will have three options available to them. They may choose to return their device at the end of the lease period, keep it for $500, or return the device and lease a brand new one with a $500 credit applied.
In addition to affordability, there are many other benefits in choosing to lease a SpeechEasy device. With every new lease, clients will receive a 60-day trial period during which they can test the device. Should a decision be made to return the SpeechEasy within this period, the client will receive a 90% refund on the cost of their device. The cost of loss and damage insurance is also bundled into the lease protecting the client from those “oh no” situations. In addition, each client will receive full warranty coverage for the 48 months of the lease which protects against manufacturing defects at no extra charge.
The one-page application can be completed and submitted very quickly, resulting in the applicant receiving an answer in 15 minutes. Please note that SLP evaluation costs are still out-of pocket (the average cost is $400), as well as any other standard SLP charges.
To find out more information on the SpeechEasy Leasing Program, go to www.speecheasy.com or call us directly at 866-551-9042.
What about Credit Cards and Financing Programs?
The most traditional way to fund the purchase of a SpeechEasy device is through a regular credit card, like Visa or Master Card. However, depending on the rate of interest that you carry on a traditional card, you may find a smarter choice with lower interest rates.
For example, there are credit cards available to consumers that are designed specifically for financing health issues. The two most familiar that are accepted by the SpeechEasy network are HELPcard® and CareCredit. (See chart for details.)
CareCredit offers a full range of payment plans and vary depending on credit history. To find out if you qualify for CareCredit, you can visit www.CareCredit.com, click on “Patients/Clients,” in Step 1 type in “Janus Development Group,” and complete the on-line application. At the end you will be told your credit limit and account number. Print this sheet and take to your Providing SLP for processing payment.
It pays to shop around. Credit cards frequently have special offers that can be attractive initially. However, be sure to read the fine print and rigorously follow their guidelines. Often there are restrictions and, if you deviate from their terms, it can mean a significant jump in your monthly interest rate, which could mean hundreds of dollars in interest over the length of time you carry a balance.
Also, if you’ve already tested for the SpeechEasy device and have a relationship with an SLP, it may help to contact him or her and find out what experiences they have with financing options.
Funding Chart
What other options do I have for financing my device?
Banks or local lending institutions, such as employee credit unions, may also be an appropriate resource for similar financing. Consult the local branch of your bank or credit union for more information on available loan options.
What if I want to seek reimbursement or payment for my device from a state or government sponsored agency?
Many SpeechEasy clients have worked persistently for reimbursement of their device through state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) programs. In fact, all but four states in the U.S. are now regularly reimbursing for SpeechEasy devices for qualified clients. Our SLPs and members of the SpeechEasy community are sharing with us wonderful stories about pursing payment for their device through VR channels (see the Vivian Topp article in this newsletter). Also, go to http://www.jan.wvu.edu/SBSES/VOCREHAB.HTM and click on your state’s name for specific VR information.
VR is a program that is partially federal and partially state funded. Its intent is to supply anything a person needs to get a job. Keep in mind that guidelines for acceptance will vary from state to state. However, for most approved VR purchases, the following guidelines apply:
- must be 18 or older
- clearly communicate to the VR counselor the importance of the SpeechEasy device in gaining better employment
- a letter from your SLP in many cases has been very important as part of the application
- be prepared to be persistent until you reach someone who really understands what it is you are asking for
SpeechEasy is set up as a vendor for VR programs. That means the more members of our community persist in making inroads with VR state organizations, the easier it will be for others to receive the same benefit going forward.
Also, be prepared to wait on ordering your device until you receive reimbursement approval from your state VR office. If you purchase the device in advance on the assumption that they will reimburse you, you may end up having to pay for it yourself.
If you have any questions about this or other funding issues, please feel free to contact Janus directly at 866-551-9042.
What about organizations in my Community?
There are cases where members of the SpeechEasy community have obtained devices through donations from civic, religious or community organizations. Some of these organizations include Kiwanis International, the Rotary Club, the Lions Club and the Moose Lodge. Check with your local Chamber of Commerce for other philanthropic organizations in your city.
Some members of the SpeechEasy community have had their company, co-workers or place of business contribute either partial or full payment for their device.
Share with your family and your friends the importance of having this device – be open about your intention and your goal, and you can make it happen. Where there is a will, there is a way!
Is there any support from public school programs?
If you have a child between the ages of 3 and 21 that is enrolled in a public school or a local education agency, they may be entitled to special services and equipment under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). You may request to have the child evaluated for speech and hearing impairments at no charge. For funding of the device, contact your local governing board for public schools to find out more about what opportunities may exist in your area.
What about reimbursement from my health insurance?
The future for the next generation of SpeechEasy users is health insurance reimbursement. Although it takes longer for this system to be built, ultimately, once it is in place, it will serve our community for years to come. Similarly to the vocation rehab programs, it requires diligence, determination and patience. But the rewards will be monumental.
To date, some insurance companies are awarding partial and/or full reimbursement for the device, depending upon an individual policy. SpeechEasy has contracted with Healthcare Reimbursement Solutions, Inc. (HRSI) to help you attempt to obtain reimbursement from your insurance provider at no charge.
We will continue to keep you updated on our progress on this issue, and also encourage you to keep us informed on your experiences as well. Sharing information about your experience can be a key to helping someone else who is working for the same result.
Go to http://www.speecheasy.com/testimonials_story.php to share your testimonial on this or any other subject relative to your financing, fluency or function issues associated with your SpeechEasy experience.
