ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES PROVIDER IN UTAH

Fatumata Kaba
24 hours ago
3 min read

ENABLING GREATER INDEPENDENCE THROUGH PERSONALIZED EQUIPMENT, DEVICES, AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Assistive Technology (AT) Services in Utah provide individuals with disabilities access to equipment and supports that enhance communication, mobility, learning, and independence. These services are covered under several 1915(c) Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, administered by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) through the Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD).

Assistive Technology can include both devices and related services, such as customization, training, and repairs, to ensure individuals can successfully use the equipment as part of their Individual Support Plan (ISP).

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1. GOVERNING AGENCIES

Agency: Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) – Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD)

Role: Reviews requests for assistive technology, authorizes services in ISP, and oversees provider enrollment and compliance.

Agency: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Role: Provides federal oversight of HCBS waiver implementation and standards for assistive technology funding and usage.

2. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES OVERVIEW

Assistive Technology services include the assessment, acquisition, customization, maintenance, and training of equipment that promotes an individual’s functioning, communication, learning, or safety.

Covered items and supports may include:

Communication devices (e.g., speech-generating devices)
Electronic organizers or smart tech for memory/cognitive support
Adaptive keyboards, switches, and computer access tools
Specialized hearing, vision, or mobility equipment
Remote monitoring systems and safety alerts
Home automation supports (e.g., voice-controlled lights, smart locks)
Setup and user training by qualified AT specialists
Repair, replacement, or reprogramming of existing AT devices

Note: All AT items must be medically necessary, approved in the ISP, and aimed at increasing functional independence or reducing the need for human assistance.

3. LICENSING & PROVIDER APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

Prerequisites:

Register your business with the Utah Division of Corporations
Obtain EIN and Type 2 NPI
Enroll as a Medicaid provider with Utah Medicaid
Apply to DSPD for Assistive Technology provider certification
Ensure AT devices and services meet Medicaid durability and function standards
Maintain insurance for liability, equipment handling, and technical services
Develop an Assistive Technology Services Policy & Procedure Manual

4. UTAH PROVIDER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Step 1: Register your business and obtain EIN and NPI

Step 2: Submit Medicaid provider application

Step 3: Apply for DSPD approval as an AT provider

Step 4: Submit service descriptions, device categories, and technician credentials

Step 5: Complete DSPD orientation and readiness verification

Step 6: Begin receiving referrals and providing AT consultations or devices per ISP

5. REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Business registration, EIN, and NPI
Medicaid and DSPD provider approval
AT Policy & Procedure Manual including:
- Device evaluation and recommendation process
- Participant needs and ISP alignment
- Equipment acquisition, customization, and delivery protocols
- Staff credentials and device handling procedures
- Safety standards and infection control (as applicable)
- Training and usage support logs
- Warranty, repairs, and return documentation
- Billing and documentation forms (invoicing, delivery receipt, AT use verification)

6. STAFFING REQUIREMENTS

Role: Assistive Technology Specialist / Consultant

Requirements: Experience with AT devices; preferred certifications include RESNA ATP (Assistive Technology Professional), OT/PT with AT training, or relevant tech background

Role: Technician / Equipment Support Staff

Requirements: Knowledge of setup, maintenance, and configuration of AT devices

All staff must complete:

HIPAA and client confidentiality training
Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Prevention (ANEP)
DSPD ISP alignment and documentation practices
Manufacturer-specific device setup training
Participant-centered equipment education techniques

7. MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAMS

Assistive Technology is covered under:

Community Supports Waiver (CSW)
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver
Physical Disabilities Waiver (PDW)
Medically Complex Children’s Waiver (MCCW)
New Choices Waiver (NCW) – For individuals transitioning from nursing facilities