Navigate the challenges of acquiring AAC.

Disclosure: Please be aware that this information is provided for informational purposes only, and it is not sponsored or affiliated with any products or services mentioned in this content. The author does not receive any compensation or payment for purchases made through the recommendations provided here. The suggestions are made solely to assist and inform, based on the author's knowledge and expertise.

We all know that optimizing our insurance benefits is a wise financial move, especially when it comes to securing assistive devices like augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. It's only natural to want to make the most of the substantial investment we make in insurance every year.

However, the reality is that the path to acquiring AAC devices isn't always straightforward, and it can be fraught with challenges.

It's not uncommon for many clinics offering AAC evaluations to have waiting lists. Additionally, the evaluation process can be a lengthy one, often adding to the frustration. While some AAC providers do offer temporary devices to use while your AAC evaluation is in progress, others require you to wait for insurance approval before you can access the device.

To complicate matters further, some insurance providers may impose certain requirements. For example, they might prefer to see progress with low-tech AAC methods like PECS before granting an AAC evaluation. This requirement can be particularly frustrating when a high-tech AAC device would be more effective for your child's specific needs.

So, as a parent or caregiver, what can you do in this challenging situation?

1. Advocate tirelessly for your child's needs, ensuring they receive the best possible care.

2. Begin a conversation with your primary care physician. Many insurance providers require a prescription from your primary care physician supporting your child needs for a high-tech AAC device.

3. Explore nonprofit organizations that specialize in providing access to various high-tech AAC applications.

4. Consider having your child evaluated by the school district, which can often be a faster and more accessible route.

5. Look for AAC apps that you can download onto a device you already own, providing a cost-effective and flexible solution.

6. Engage with your child's speech pathologist, who can provide valuable insights and resources to navigate this journey effectively.

Some apps to start exploring:

• Avaz AAC : iOs and Android

• TD Snap: Android

• LAMP Words For Life: iOs

• GoTalk Lite/Now: iOs

• CoughDrop: iOs, Android, Amazon Kindle, Windows

• LetMeTalk: iOs, Android

Remember, these apps vary in their features and capabilities. It's a great idea to collaborate with your speech therapy team to determine which one suits your child's unique needs best.

If you're not currently working with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) but want to dive in, consider selecting 2-3 of these apps to explore. Test them out to see which one you find easy to customize and use. The more adaptable it is to your child's needs, the more likely you'll be able to model it effectively. Ultimately, the best device for your child is the one that both your child and your family will feel comfortable using and benefit from.