Why do schools bill Medicaid for speech-language pathology and audiology services provided in the school setting?
The federal Medicaid program allows states to use their Medicaid funds to help pay for certain health care services that are delivered in the schools, with the condition that federal Medicaid regulations are followed. For many children, schools are the primary entry point for receiving needed health and social services. Section 1903(c) of the Social Security Act was amended to allow Medicaid coverage of health-related services provided to children under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Q: Are the professional qualification requirements of a speech-language pathologist or audiologist under Medicaid in the schools the same as in health care facilities or private practices? Yes. Federal regulations require that services be rendered “by or under the direction of” an SLP or audiologist. The regulations define a qualified SLP or audiologist as one who has a CCC from ASHA or has completed the equivalent educational requirements and work experience necessary for the cert
