ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES PROVIDER IN LOUISIANA

Fatumata Kaba
Aug 12
4 min read

PROMOTING INDEPENDENCE AND FUNCTIONAL ACCESS THROUGH PERSONALIZED DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGICAL SUPPORTS

Assistive Technology (AT) Services in Louisiana help individuals with disabilities and complex needs perform tasks they would otherwise be unable to accomplish due to physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments. These services are covered under specific Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and are intended to increase independence, safety, and community participation.

1. GOVERNING AGENCIES

Agency: Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) — Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) & Office of Aging and Adult Services (OAAS)

Role: Administers waiver programs that authorize assistive technology services and defines eligibility criteria

Agency: Louisiana Medicaid / Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS)

Role: Handles provider enrollment, billing, and claims processing for AT providers

Agency: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Role: Provides federal oversight to ensure AT services meet HCBS standards under 1915(c) waivers

Agency: Managed Care Organizations (MCOs)** (for enrollees in Bayou Health)

Role: Authorize assistive technology purchases based on the participant’s Plan of Care (POC) and coordinate reimbursement

2. SERVICE OVERVIEW

Assistive Technology (AT) Services involve the assessment, acquisition, customization, delivery, and training related to devices that improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

Examples of covered AT services:

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices
Environmental control units (e.g., voice-activated switches, remote-operated lighting)
Adaptive computer equipment or tablet-based tools
Specialized keyboards, mice, or screen readers
Sensory devices for individuals with autism or visual/hearing impairments
Mobility support tools not covered by Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
Adapted telephone systems or video relay tools
Device training for participants, family members, or caregivers

All AT services must be medically necessary, clearly linked to a functional limitation, and approved in the participant’s Plan of Care (POC) before delivery.

3. LICENSING & PROVIDER APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

Prerequisites:

Register your business with the Louisiana Secretary of State
Obtain IRS EIN and Type 2 NPI
Enroll as an Assistive Technology provider through the Louisiana Medicaid Provider Enrollment Portal
Maintain general liability insurance and any applicable warranties or vendor agreements
Employ or contract with certified Assistive Technology Professionals (ATP), occupational therapists (OTs), or speech-language pathologists (SLPs)
Develop an Assistive Technology Services Policy & Procedure Manual
Ensure HIPAA-compliant documentation, delivery logs, and device tracking systems

4. LOUISIANA PROVIDER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Step 1: Medicaid Enrollment

Apply through the Louisiana Medicaid Provider Enrollment Portal under the appropriate waiver program(s)

Step 2: Submit Documentation

Include business license, proof of insurance, staff credentials, sample cost estimates, and device tracking templates

Step 3: Secure Service Authorizations

Collaborate with the waiver case manager and clinicians (OT/SLP) for assessments
Submit itemized quotes to the MCO or LDH for review and authorization

Step 4: Deliver Services & Bill for Reimbursement

Order and deliver the approved device
Provide usage training and ensure proper documentation and receipts are submitted with billing

5. REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Louisiana Articles of Incorporation or business license
IRS EIN and NPI confirmation
Certificate of insurance
Assistive Technology Services Policy & Procedure Manual, including:
- AT referral, evaluation, and justification forms
- Cost estimate templates and authorization tracking logs
- Delivery and setup confirmation records
- Participant and caregiver training checklists
- HIPAA consent and release forms
- Equipment return, maintenance, and warranty policies
- Medicaid billing logs and audit-ready documentation