More Information on Obtaining Medical Equipment and Services for Those with Disabilities

Part 4, Chapter 13: Specialized Situations: Programs for Children and Adults with Disabilities and Special Health Care Needs Page 17

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In some states, programs designed to help purchase medical equipment for children with disabilities may be available through the state Department of Health, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, the Division of Developmental Disabilities, or through another state agency. If you are unable to determine whether such funding programs are available in your state, or which state agency implements existing programs, the local office of the Protection and Advocacy Service or the local Independent Living Center may be able to help (See Appendix B).

Medications may be available through the "Prescription Drug Patient Assistance Program," sponsored by individual manufacturers of specific prescription medications. The program is intended to provide prescription medications for individuals who are unable to afford the cost of the medication.

Each manufacturer sets specific rules. Eligibility is usually determined on a case-by-case basis. The application must be made by the patient's physician (See Appendix B).

Summary

Ideally, America will eventually devise an effective system through which children and adults with disabilities will have full access to the kinds of medical treatment, services, and equipment they need. In the meantime, it's essential to understand and make use of existing programs. At this point, programs that may provide health insurance coverage or funding for medical equipment and services for children with disabilities include Medicaid, Medicare, private health insurance policies, state programs, private organizations, and the public school system. Making use of the benefits offered through those programs will help ensure that children with disabilities have the opportunity to achieve their maximum potential.

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