 Evaluation of
Speech Generation Device (SGD) or Augmentative
Communication
SGD evaluation and follow up augmentative communication services are the most
specialized services we here at Dynamic Therapy Associates offer our patients.
We conduct 35-50 of these evaluations annually. Our therapists are trained
at the country's top assistive technology conferences each year. This service
involves 3 evaluation & training sessions during a 6 week period. If a speech
generating device is recommended, 2-3 additional sessions over the subsequent 6
months are required for customization, intervention planning and more advanced
specific training. We handle the majority of funding paperwork to assist
patients in procuring devices through their funding sources (insurance, Medicaid
or Medicare). Service includes:
I. Initial Assessment of Candidacy for a Speech Generating Device (CPT
Code 92597): 1 hour session to introduce and trial selection of
appropriate devices and conduct family/team interview. If the patient is
determined to be a candidate for a speech generating device, services continue
to include the following.
II. In-depth augmentative communication assessment and initial treatment (CPT
Code 92507 & 92609): Two 1-hour sessions including trials with
potential speech generating devices, partner introductory training and initial
programming of device.
III. Training and planning for specific speech generating device (CPT
Code 92609): Two 1-hour sessions with our staff to plan implementation
of the recommended speech generating device, determine custom vocabulary needs
and distribute funding paperwork. If high-technology device is
recommended, the sales representative for the device manufacturer will be
requested to contact and follow-up with the family/team. Meetings with the
sales representative can occur in our office during the manufacturer's "Vendor
Day" each month.
We will request that all devices be delivered directly to
this office so that we can check the package to ensure all components are
included, label all components and begin the process of customization for our
patients.
IV: Custom Programming and Modification of Speech Generating Device
(CPT Code 92609): Customization of device with relevant vocabulary
organized in a format agreed upon by the family and team to be the most
appropriate for the patient. This can be 1-8 hours of therapist time.
V: On-Going Therapy and Modification Speech-Therapy Sessions (CPT
Code 92507, 92609): We highly recommend regular speech therapy visits
to our office for all speech generating (AAC) device users. These can be
weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or annual sessions to improve skills, evaluate use
and recommend on-going intervention techniques. Our therapists are skilled
in providing this therapy in conjunction with traditional speech therapy to work
on articulation, apraxia, phonological impairment and general language
disorders.
As of June 1, 2009, we will no longer schedule single visit speech
generating device evaluations. Our previous experiences as a practice have
indicated that such evaluations without on-going support greatly increase the
likelihood of device rejection and inappropriate or ineffective implementation.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you but feel strongly that it
is our ethical obligation to ensure we offer the most appropriate, effective
training and support so that you will receive the maximum benefit from your new
equipment. Our price for the initial speech generating device evaluation has
been decreased to reflect the amount of time and therapist expertise required to
perform the individual augmentative communication services we offer.
Please contact our office to set up your initial visit!
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