Alternate Sources of Funding for Children with Disabilities

Part 4, Chapter 13: Specialized Situations: Programs for Children and Adults with Disabilities and Special Health Care Needs Page 11

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Alternate Sources of Funding

There are a variety of situations in which neither Medicaid, Medicare, or private health insurance policies are likely to offer coverage for important services or equipment. Fortunately, there are public and private programs and agencies that may be able to provide help in such cases, particularly in terms of meeting the needs of a child with a disability.

For example, certain services for a child with a disability who is aftending school may be available through the local public school district. In some cases, a local public school district may consider providing such services as speech therapy and physical therapy for a child with a disability, and may also consider providing help with the purchase of an augmentative communications device, a hearing aid, or other types of medical equipment. To qualify for help through a local school district, you need to be able to demonstrate that the particular equipment is directly related to the child's education. In addition, the need for the equipment must generally be listed in the child's IEP (Individualized Education Program).

The state Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) may be able to provide help for an older child with a disability who is beginning to prepare for employment. There are DVRS offices in each state. The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services may be able to provide vocational testing, counseling, and education related to employment. DVRS may also be able to make referrals to agencies that provide services related to supported employment programs and job placement. In addition, DVRS may be able to help purchase equipment or make modifications that are directly related to employment. For further information, contact your local state Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services office.

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