As a parent caring for a child with disabilities or special needs, you're likely seeking out all available resources to help with caregiving and ensuring your child has the best possible care and quality of life. One program that can help is In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), which offers financial assistance to those who need help with personal care and daily tasks. But when it comes to specific needs like assistive devices, you may be wondering if IHSS can help cover these costs.
In this blog post, we’ll explore whether IHSS can help pay for assistive devices for your child, the types of devices covered under the program, and what alternatives might be available.
Assistive devices refer to any tools, equipment, or technologies designed to help individuals with disabilities perform tasks they might otherwise find difficult or impossible. For children with disabilities, assistive devices can include things like:
These devices are crucial in helping children with disabilities live more independently, improve their mobility, communication, and overall well-being.
The short answer is no, IHSS does not typically cover the costs of assistive devices. IHSS is primarily designed to provide funding for personal care services (like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation), household tasks (such as cleaning and cooking), and mobility assistance when necessary. However, the program is limited in scope and does not extend to medical equipment or specialized assistive technology.
While IHSS doesn't cover the cost of assistive devices, it can cover certain services related to the use of such devices. For example, IHSS can help provide personal assistance for tasks like:
However, the cost of the actual device (e.g., purchasing a wheelchair, hearing aid, or communication device) would not be covered under the IHSS program.
Although IHSS doesn’t cover the purchase of assistive devices, there are several other programs and resources that may help cover these costs.
In California, Medi-Cal (the state’s Medicaid program) may cover the cost of assistive devices and medical equipment for eligible children. Medi-Cal often provides coverage for:
To find out if your child qualifies, you’ll need to work with your child’s doctor to get the necessary prescriptions and documentation, and then apply for Medi-Cal. If approved, Medi-Cal can cover the cost of purchasing these devices, either fully or partially.
The California Children's Services (CCS) program provides medical services, including the coverage of assistive devices, for children with physical disabilities. If your child has a qualifying condition (such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy), CCS may help provide the equipment they need.
To access these services, you will need to apply through the program and provide medical documentation of your child’s needs. Once approved, CCS may cover a range of devices, including wheelchairs, braces, and communication aids.
Under IDEA, children with disabilities may be entitled to certain accommodations through their Individualized Education Program (IEP) at school. This can include assistive devices like communication boards, hearing aids, or other specialized equipment needed for their education and well-being. These devices are provided at no cost to families, and the IEP team will determine the type of device that is needed.
There are several nonprofit organizations that provide financial assistance or donations for assistive devices for children in need. Some of these organizations specialize in specific conditions, such as:
These organizations may offer grants, financial aid, or equipment loans to help with the costs of assistive devices. Researching local charities or national foundations could open up additional resources to help fund these devices.
In some cases, private health insurance may cover the cost of assistive devices, depending on the policy and the medical necessity of the device. Check with your insurance provider to find out if these devices are covered and whether there are any limits or requirements.
Some states offer programs designed to help individuals access assistive technology and devices, such as California's Assistive Technology Program. These programs can provide low-interest loans, equipment loans, or grants to help cover the cost of devices. These services are typically available to individuals with disabilities who need assistive technology to maintain independence.
If your child needs an assistive device, here are the steps you can take:
While IHSS is an invaluable resource for parents of children with disabilities, it is important to understand that the program typically does not cover the cost of assistive devices like wheelchairs, hearing aids, or other medical equipment. However, there are several other programs, including Medi-Cal, CCS, and nonprofit organizations, that may provide the financial assistance you need to get these devices.
Be sure to explore all of your options, consult with healthcare providers, and contact relevant state and local agencies to ensure that your child gets the support they need.
Need help? In California, the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program provides crucial financial help for families raising children with special needs. American Advocacy Group is on the front lines every day, making positive change happen for people diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome, and a range of diagnoses across the continuum. As a leading advocate for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, and the premier provider of the support and services people want and need, we understand the system and know how to take action regarding your best interests.
CONTACT US FOR HELP. Dial (877) 762-0702 or email us at [email protected].