Pathways To Funding For Adults & Seniors:
A Handbook for WV's Older Residents

Section 3.   Common AT Funding Source Questions

[Augmentative Communication Devices]    [Computers]    [Prescription Assistance]    [Ramps and Home Modifications]    [Vans/Lifts]    [Fundraising for Assistive Technology]

Funding Information for Augmentative Communication Devices

How can a person get funding for Augmentative Communication Devices (AAC)?picture of an aug comm device

You should not buy or ask a funding source to pay for an AAC device unless you have had an assessment by an expert in AAC. Everyone's needs are different and literally hundreds of AAC devices are available. Probably more AAC devices are in closets than any other AT devices. Trying AAC devices out is absolutely necessary. So please look to one of the loan sources in this section before purchasing.

AAC Funding Sources - Public Programs

Medicaid
Medicaid covers augmentative communication devices. Coverage of these devices is for the purpose of assisting a Medicaid recipient to communicate basic medical needs only. Devices intended to meet social, educational and vocational needs are not covered. Call 304-558-0627 to discuss the Medicaid process further. Devices must be dedicated communication devices. Computers are not covered.

Medicare
People who qualify for Medicare Part B may have an option to get funding for augmentative communication devices. The person has to prove that the AAC fits the definitions of durable medical equipment and medical necessity. If you want to discuss the Medicare process further, you can call a Medicare counselor at 800-443-9354.

Private Insurance
Under most health insurance policies, a communication device is not usually seen as a covered item, but the policy may cover a prosthesis. You can request the AAC as a voice prosthesis and appeal if your request is turned down. These decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. The request and appeal should include information from the physician and a speech pathologist showing how the AT will encourage normal function and will improve the user's ability to function.

Other funding sources for augmentative communication are: picture of an aug comm device Augmentative Communication Loan and Information Sources
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Funding Information for Getting a Computer

Computer Funding, Resource for
Resources the Disabled Can Use to Acquire and Fund Computers lists all the known sources for acquiring and funding computers. Includes sources for grants, programs, services, technology-related assistance, where to purchase computers at discounts and where to get information about companies that produce special computer-related products. It is available for $5 at www.vocrehabvermont.org/html/resources_funding.cfm For more information or to order call 800-637-2556.

Compaq Computer Company
Compaq offers reasonably priced, previously owned PCs that have been thoroughly tested. For more information call 800-752-0900 or visit http://h18000.www1.hp.com. Prices start at $379.99.

Computers for Literacy Students
With help from both the Literacy Volunteers and Laubach Literacy, computer systems are given to students who are progressing in their studies and whose literacy and computer literacy skills will be enhanced by frequent use of a computer. Any literacy tutor who believes a computer would benefit his/her student is welcome to apply. Call 304-523-2257 or e-mail mwv@missionwv.org

Dell Computer Company
Dell offers reasonably priced, previously owned PCs that have been thoroughly tested. For more information call 800-336-2891 or visit www.dell.com

GiveTech
Computer tools designed specifically for those with severe physical disabilities allow for increased self-reliance and a vastly enhanced computing and Internet experience. GiveTech's goal is to provide such technological tools to those in need. For more information call 415-750-2576 or visit their website at www.givetech.org

Mission West Virginia
Mission West Virginia is a nonprofit organization that accepts donations of used computer equipment, refurbishes the equipment and redistributes it in the form of donations or low-cost resale. For more information call 866-562-0723 or visit www.missionwv.org Mission West Virginia also offers programs where seniors can attend free computer training sessions. They are located in senior centers across the state. For more information call your local senior center (See Appendix F).

National World Solutions Committee
This committee was established to assist blind individuals in acquiring computers and related equipment through low-interest loans. Loans are available to people with blindness whose incomes range from $10,000-$35,000. For more information call 612-379-3493.

New World Solutions
New World Solutions is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities through life-enhancing computer technology. They sell brand new, high quality IBM compatible computer systems at discount prices. For more information call 888-265-1515.

PC Renewal
PC Renewal is a company specializing in the recycling of retired computer and office equipment. This company refurbishes old and donated equipment and office equipment and redistributes equipment at a discounted price to individuals who need a computer or office equipment. Call 304-291-8550 for more information.


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Prescription Assistance

bottles of medicine

Free Medicines from Pharmaceutical Companies

With the cost of some prescriptions approaching $1,000 a month and with even less costly drugs rapidly depleting the resources of people on fixed incomes, there may be an answer from an unlikely source. Many drug companies will provide free prescriptions to people who cannot afford them. A doctor, however, must certify the patient is needy. For more information, your physician can call the Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers Association hotline at 800-PMA-INFO.

NeedyMeds.com
Each company has its own program with its special requirements, forms, and procedures. Actually, some companies have different programs for different drugs. Most pharmaceutical companies will send their application forms only to a physician's office and usually only at the request of the physician or his/her representative. Some of the companies will send forms to social workers or to patients and a few will forward the forms to the physician's office at the request of the social worker or patient. Policies vary from company to company.

The information on NeedyMeds.com was obtained directly from the drug manufacturers. Sometimes the companies change their requirements, paperwork, or policies. In addition, they may add or delete drugs from their programs, so call to ensure you have accurate information. You can access the information by manufacturer, drug name or drug category.

Cost Containment Research Institute
The Cost Containment Research Institute has published a booklet providing a listing of drugs made by manufacturers that have patient assistance programs. More information about the booklet, entitled "Free and Low Cost Prescription Drugs," can be found at www.institute-dc.org, or by calling 202-318-0770.

Other Free Medication Sources

National Organization for Rare Diseases (NORD)
NORD's Medication Assistance Programs provide several free prescription drugs to needy patients with rare diseases who cannot afford treatments. For more information, call 203-744-0100 or 800-999-6673 (voicemail only). You may also visit www.rarediseases.org.programs/medication

The Medicine Company
The Medicine Company, in cooperation with physicians, assist patients who qualify in one or more of their programs. These programs provide prescription medication free-of-charge to individuals in need regardless of their age, if they meet the sponsor's criteria. For more information call 573-996-7300 or access their website at www.themedicineprogram.com

Health Right
Health Right Clinics provide health care to those who have inadequate or no medical insurance and are unable to pay for their medical care. Health Right clinics exist to meet the health care needs of these citizens. Medications are contributed by pharmaceutical manufacturers. For more information call 304-292-8234 (Morgantown), 304-343-7003 (Charleston), 304-327-2410 (Bluefield), 304-233-9323 (Wheeling), or 304-239-3810 (Logan). You may also visit www.wvhealthright.org

Golden Mountaineer Discount Card
Senior West Virginians age 60 and older are eligible for the Golden Mountaineer Discount Card which is accepted by many pharmacies in West Virginia. The card is free to seniors and there are no income restrictions. For more information about this card call the Bureau of Senior Services toll-free at 877-987-3646. You may also complete an application online at www.state.wv.us/seniorservices

Rx for West Virginia
Rx for West Virginia enables individuals to call one place to find out if they, or someone they know qualify for help. There are more than 250 programs to help families afford their prescription drugs. The programs contain more than 1,200 different prescription drugs. Medications for asthma, diabetes, heartburn and cholesterol are just some of the prescriptions eligible patients can get for free or at discounted prices. Call 877-982-7948 or go to www.RxforWV.org for more information.

The Partnership for Prescription Assistance
The Partnership for Prescription Assistance provides a single point of access to more than 275 public and private patient assistance programs, including more than 150 programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. Many people are eligible for public programs based on their age or income. The mission of the Partnership for Prescription Assistance is to increase awareness about these programs and boost enrollment of those who are eligible. To access the Partnership for Prescription Assistance visit www.pparx.org or call 888-477-2669.

Access to Benefits Coalition
The Access to Benefits Coalition (ABC) is dedicated to ensuring that Medicare beneficiaries with lower incomes know about and can make the best use of all available resources for reducing the costs of prescription drugs, including the Medicare-approved drug discount card program and the Medicare prescription drug benefit. The goal of the Coalition is to educate Medicare beneficiaries with lower incomes, help them make informed choices about prescription savings programs and help them enroll in prescription savings programs. For more information visit www.accesstobenefits.org or call 202-479-1200.

Free Meds and Solutions
Free Meds and Solutions is a service to assist individuals with finding programs that will save or eliminate prescription medicine costs. The Free Meds web site provides up-to-date information on hundreds of Patient Assistance Programs, including qualifying criteria, applications and detailed instructions. The service is available at www.freemedsandsolutions.com or by toll-free number 877-354-6337.

Online Sources
Individuals can save on prescription drugs by shopping online, getting free discount cards, and going directly to the manufacturer. Below are some links designed to help individuals start saving:

www.pillbot.com
www.destinationrx.com
www.rxsavingsplus.com
www.togetherrxaccess.com
www.helpingpatients.org
www.revolutionhealth.com
www.WebMD.com

Benefits CheckUp Benefits CheckUp helps thousands every day to find programs for people ages 55 and over that may pay for some of their costs of prescription drugs, health care, utilities, and other essential items or services. Fill out the simple questionnaire at www.benefitscheckup.org to find programs that can assist you or your loved ones.


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Funding Information for Ramps & Home Modifications

Ramps and other home modifications are needed by many people to make their residences accessible. Unfortunately, only a limited amount of assistance is available for such modifications. Listed below are some sources of assistance.

Private insurance: Depending on the terms of an individual or group policy, private insurance may pay for ramps and home modifications. Such modifications are considered to be durable medical equipment by many insurance companies. Contact your insurance company representative for more information.

Managed Care Programs: Managed care programs may pay for ramps and home modifications on a case-by-case basis if the doctor writes a prescription and if they are considered to be durable medical equipment. For more information, contact your managed care program.

Mental Retardation/Developmental Disabilities Waiver Program: Medicaid can pay for ramps and home modifications under this waiver program as part of an array of in-home services. This is an important note: An individual cannot be made eligible for the waiver just to get these modifications. Individuals must receive extensive services that enable them to stay in the home instead of living in a nursing home. For more information, contact your Medicaid Waiver case manager.

Social Security: The PASS plan allows SSI recipients who are working for a vocational goal to deduct the amount they pay for home modifications from their earned income allowing the individual to receive an applicable amount of benefits. However, the individual must prove that these modifications will enable them to go to work and they have a limited amount of time to achieve an occupational goal. Also, a PASS plan must be approved before it goes into effect. The PASS plan can cover any assistive technology that leads to independence. For more information on any of these programs, contact your local Social Security Office.

Rural Housing Administration: Individuals living in a rural community of less than 20,000 individuals can apply for Section 504 loans or grants. Individuals that are 62 or older may qualify for grants up to $7,5000. Loans up to $15,000 at 1% interest are also available. There are strict income guidelines. For more information, contact your local Rural Housing Administration.

MR/DD Special Services and Equipment Fund: This Special Services and Equipment Fund helps pay for assistive technology services and devices for individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities who have exhausted all other sources of funding. This fund may pay for ramps and some home modifications. For more information, contact your case manager.

Habitat for Humanity: The Habitat for Humanity program in some areas of the state may provide volunteer labor to construct a ramp if materials are provided. Call your local Habitat for Humanity for more information.

Veterans Administration: The Veterans Administration (VA) offers programs that pay for ramps and home modifications for qualified veterans. For more information, call your local VA office.

Regional Programs: County or regional organizations may provide labor and/or materials. Call you local Community Action program to see if they will assist you or know of an organization in your community that will help.

Other Suggestions: Because of the scarcity of funding and resources, many individuals with disabilities turn to churches and other local charity organizations for help in installing ramps or modifying their homes. If you have tried the above resources without success, see if you can find a local group that may be able to help you.


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Funding Information for Vans/Lifts

How can a person get funding for vans/lifts?

a van

Funding for adaptive vans usually involves funding the vehicle itself and then funding the adaptive equipment, such as lifts or adapted driving aids. Programs for funding are:

Public programs may give help to people who qualify. Funding will depend on income and how severe the disability is.

The MR/DD program may cover the cost of the lift if the person qualifies for services.

Vocational Rehabilitation may also help put in a lift for a vehicle that has been certified as "sound". If you are a vocational rehabilitation client, call your local rehabilitation counselor for more information.

Automotive Companies Assistance Programs

Chrysler's Automobility
Chrysler offers assistance to individuals who buy or lease new Chrysler cars, trucks, and vans and who install adaptive driving aids and conversion equipment in their vehicles. Chrysler will provide reimbursement for such equipment up to $750, which must be installed within one year of the vehicle purchase. Reimbursements of up to $1,000 are available on some full-size wagons and vans. Individuals are reimbursed for adaptations and must supply an invoice with the application. For information about the program, please call 800-255-9877.

Ford Mobility Motoring
Ford Mobility Company will provide $1,000 toward the installation of adaptive equipment or passenger equipment for an individual who purchases any new Ford or Lincoln-Mercury vehicle. The qualified applicant will also receive a complimentary cellular phone and a complimentary one-year membership to Ford Auto Club that includes 24-hour emergency service. Any individual with a disability or the family member of an individual with a physical disability who purchases a new vehicle is eligible for assistance. Additional information can be obtained by calling 800-392-3673. The Ford Mobility Monitoring Program offers a helpline 800-952-2248. This helpline can offer information on nearby driver assessment centers, local adaptive equipment dealers and more.

General Motors Mobility Assistance Center
General Motors will reimburse up to $1,000 of the cost of adaptive equipment and its installation in any new GM vehicle. The purchase assistance is only available to individuals with disabilities who purchase a new GM vehicle. The individual can be either a driver or a passenger in the vehicle. In addition to adaptive equipment reimbursement, the GM Mobility Program provides resource information by state, including locations of mobility equipment installers, driver assessment centers and other transportation resources. GM Mobility has partnered with iCan.com, an online community for people who have disabilities. iCan Auto Channel provides information about vehicles, conversion options, funding and driving programs for people who have special mobility needs. For more information call 800-323-9935.

Saturn Mobility
Saturn offers information about installers of adaptive equipment that allows for barrier-free driving or riding. They also offer to help you pay for it with reimbursements of up to $1,000. Ask your Saturn retailer for a Saturn Mobility Program application form. For more information, call 800-553-6000, Prompt 3, TTY Users Call 800-833-6000. Detailed information also available at http://saturn.thenetlab.net/company/mobility_program.jhtml

Toyota's Mobility Assistance Program
Toyota Motor Sales, USA Inc., offers assistance toward the cost of qualified aftermarket adaptive equipment installed on eligible new Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Toyota and Lexus will provide cash reimbursements of up to $1,000 to each eligible, original retail customer for the cost of purchasing and installing qualifying adaptive driving or passenger equipment for people with physical disabilities. The offer applies to all purchased or leased Toyota or Lexus vehicles. In the Lexus and Toyota Mobility Assistance programs, the following are considered obvious mobility adaptations and do not require a doctor's note or other documentation to qualify for reimbursement: Automatic door opener, automatic door and lift controls, assist handles, hoist or lifter-type products, vinyl seat covers, and transfer seats. For more information call 800-331-4331 or visit www.toyota.com/mobility

Volkswagen Mobility Access Program
Volkswagen of America offers up to $1500 in assistance under its mobility Access Program for conversions and modifications to its Eurovan and Camper models when purchased new. The purchase assistance is only available to individuals who purchase the models specified. Proof of wheelchair use is required at the time of purchase. For more information call 800-374-8389.


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Fundraising for Assistive Technology

On occasion it is necessary for an individual or family to consider fundraising as a means of purchasing needed technology.

How do you start a fundraising effort?

If you are an individual or family member needing assistive technology it may be helpful to approach a church, fraternal, or civic organization within your community to sponsor the fundraising effort. They may be willing to sponsor a bake sale, bazaar, pancake breakfast or similar activity that can help raise funds for your cause. Usually organizations are already familiar with this type of fundraising.

If you have a willing sponsor, which has no experience in fundraising but is willing to assist, here are some general guidelines that can help take some of the mystery out of fundraising.

If your sponsor wishes to create a donor letter campaign, these are a few things to keep in mind when creating the letter:

It is often necessary to combine several types of resources. It can often be difficult to go to one's community for assistance. But it is important to remember that asking for assistance is not admitting defeat, but realizing that there are people willing to help donate time and money to your cause.

 

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