State AT Programs share Medicaid iPad coverage initiatives

1. State AT Programs share Medicaid iPad coverage initiatives             Oklahoma – Linda Jaco             Vermont – Amber Fulcher             Colorado – Maureen Melonis

2. History/What’s Been Done • Oklahoma – Linda Jaco • Approximately 2 years ago the Oklahoma Health Care Authority was approached to vend iPads as speech generating devices • OHCA Approves: • iPad (up to $499) • Durable case (Ex. Otterbox) • Application (7 apps are preapproved) • Vendors

3. History/What’s Been Done • Vermont – Amber Fulcher - 2 years ago the VT Department of Health Care Access began collaborating with area SLP’s • Consulted with policy oversight, reimbursement, & provider services • Approved by medical director and senior management • Identified vendor & began approving in 2012

4. History/What’s Been Done • Vermont – Amber Fulcher - VATP established iPad Rental Program to support SLP’s running trials of iOS devices for approval http://atp.vermont.gov/services

5. History/What’s Been Done • Colorado – Maureen Melonis • Contacted 2 years ago • Benefit Coverage Standards (draft) • Tablets/iPads • Dedicated devices • Peripherals (cases, apps, etc) • Access (blue tooth, etc) • Trials with devices • Vendors • Other topics (reports, Q13, etc.)

6. Lessons Learned • Oklahoma – Linda Jaco • Relationships are key • The process from a position on a university campus requires many players (financial, IT, legal, etc.) • It’s worth it.

7. Lessons Learned • Vermont – Amber Fulcher - Flexibility and an approach of continuous improvement are necessary • Involve stake-holders (professionals, vendors, users) • Design policies and procedures that allow for change (ex. adding new apps with feedback from the field)

8. Lessons Learned • Colorado – Maureen Melonis • Address their agenda first • Build relationships, collaborate with other providers but carefully • Regulations, rules and requirements • Be careful what we wish for… • Limited vendors • Support needed

9. Questions