ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES PROVIDER IN NEW MEXICO

Fatumata Kaba
Sep 5
4 min read

ENHANCING INDEPENDENCE AND ACCESSIBILITY THROUGH TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

Assistive Technology Services in New Mexico provide individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, or age-related challenges with technology-based solutions to enhance daily living, communication, mobility, and independence. These services ensure that individuals can access adaptive devices and receive training to maximize their use. Assistive Technology Services are authorized under New Mexico Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver programs.

1. GOVERNING AGENCIES

Agency: New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD)

Role: Administers Medicaid waiver funding for Assistive Technology Services and manages provider enrollment, service authorization, and reimbursement.

Agency: Developmental Disabilities Supports Division (DDSD)

Role: Ensures quality standards, service delivery, and compliance for Assistive Technology Services under HCBS waiver programs.

Agency: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Role: Provides federal oversight ensuring Medicaid-funded Assistive Technology Services meet HCBS quality, person-centered planning, and participant protection standards.

2. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES OVERVIEW

Assistive Technology Services provide specialized equipment and devices that help individuals perform daily tasks, enhance communication, and maintain independence.

Approved providers may deliver:

Adaptive Communication Devices: Speech-generating devices, communication boards, and voice amplifiers.
Mobility Aids: Electric wheelchairs, scooters, and powered transfer devices.
Environmental Control Units: Smart home systems, adaptive switches, and remote-controlled devices.
Sensory Aids: Visual or auditory alert systems, tactile feedback devices, and sensory enhancement tools.
Computer Access Aids: Alternative keyboards, adaptive mice, and screen readers.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Tools: Tablets and apps designed for communication.
Adaptive Feeding Devices: Modified utensils, plate guards, and specialized eating aids.
Home Accessibility Enhancements: Stair lifts, automatic door openers, and bed positioning systems.
Training and Support: Educating individuals and families on the effective use of devices.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Ensuring devices function properly and meet safety standards.

All services are delivered according to the Individualized Service Plan (ISP) to meet the participant’s assistive technology needs.

3. LICENSING & PROVIDER APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

Prerequisites:

Register the business entity with the New Mexico Secretary of State.
Obtain EIN from the IRS and NPI (Type 2).
Enroll as a Medicaid Waiver Assistive Technology provider via the New Mexico Medicaid Provider Enrollment Portal.
Obtain necessary certifications for technology installation and training.
Maintain general liability and professional liability insurance.
Develop policies for technology assessment, installation, and user training.
Ensure staff meet background checks, health screenings, and training requirements related to assistive technology.

4. NEW MEXICO PROVIDER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Initial Interest and Application:

Complete the Provider Enrollment Application through the New Mexico Medicaid Provider Enrollment Portal for Assistive Technology Services under HCBS waivers.

Application and Documentation Submission:

Submit Articles of Incorporation, proof of EIN/NPI, technology certification, insurance certificates, and policy manuals.

Program Readiness Review:

HSD and DDSD evaluate provider readiness, including device safety, staff qualifications, and installation protocols.

Approval & Medicaid Enrollment:

Upon approval, providers are authorized to bill Medicaid for Assistive Technology Services using designated billing codes.

5. REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Articles of Incorporation or Business License (New Mexico Secretary of State)
IRS EIN confirmation
NPI confirmation
Technology Certification (if applicable)
Proof of general and professional liability insurance
Assistive Technology Services Policy & Procedure Manual including:
- Technology assessment, device installation, and user training procedures
- Safety protocols for device use and maintenance
- Staff credentialing, background checks, and ongoing training records
- Documentation standards for technology tracking and Medicaid billing
- HIPAA compliance, participant rights, and grievance handling
- Safety and emergency response protocols
- Quality assurance and compliance monitoring

6. STAFFING REQUIREMENTS

Role: Assistive Technology Program Director

Requirements: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in rehabilitation engineering, occupational therapy, or related field; experience with adaptive technology.

Role: Assistive Technology Specialists

Requirements: Certification in assistive technology (e.g., RESNA ATP); experience in device assessment and training; background clearance.

Role: Installation Technicians

Requirements: Experience with adaptive device setup, safety protocols, and maintenance; background clearance.

Role: Client Support Specialists

Requirements: Experience in user training and technical support; background clearance.

All staff must complete: