Why Aren All AAC Devices Covered?
As explained in the answer to FAQ # 5, Medicare has defined 4 groups or “codes” of AAC devices, and has agreed to cover all existing AAC devices that fit into three of the four speech-generating device codes. All digitized speech output devices are covered (K 0541; K 0542), as are all synthesized speech output devices that require physical contact direct selection and message formulation by spelling. (K 0543). Among the devices that fit the fourth code: which produce synthesized speech and allow multiple methods of access and multiple methods of message formulation (K 0544), Medicare will cover all dedicated devices, and computer-based and PDA-based devices “that have been modified to run only AAC software. ” (Letter dated May 4, 2001– available for review and downloading ______________ ). Medicare’s coverage guidance on AAC devices/SGDs: the Regional Medical Review Policy (RMRP) and the National Coverage Decision on SGDs (# 60-23), both state that “multi-functional” AAC devices are n
