Using Technology for At-Home Remote Support

Supportive technology offers people with developmental disabilities personalized help with daily tasks at home. Remote Support (and Assistive Technology) can support a person who wants to be more independent in their home, working toward minimal supervision, or who wants to set up routines and alarms (reminders to take medication).

Remote Support uses two-way communication in real-time, like Skype or FaceTime, so a person can talk with their direct support professional (DSP), even when the provider is not in their home. The service also includes supports like sensors that can call for help if a person has fallen or cameras that show who is at the door. All Medicaid waivers cover the cost and maintenance of equipment used for Remote Support service delivery.

Due to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) state of emergency, alternative options for service delivery need to be explored, as teams need to find safe staffing solutions quickly. A list of Remote Support vendors, the areas they cover, and how fast they can have a system operational is located on the department’s website.

Equipment for Remote Support

Updated January 26, 2021*

Starting March 12, 2020, the Department relaxed OAC 5123:2-9-12(F)(6). This allowed for equipment for Remote Support to be authorized and billed as one-time expense, rather than a monthly expense or lease.

The Department has seen limited success from this measure in meeting the goal of removing barriers to accessing Remote Support.

As of January 22, 2021, OAC 5123:2-9-12(F)(6) is reinstated:

When a provider of assistive technology equipment leases or manufactures assistive technology equipment, the cost billed to the department shall be the lesser of the provider's usual and customary charge or the manufacturer's suggested retail price (which shall be prorated over the useful life of the assistive technology equipment) plus a reasonable percentage adequate to cover the cost of the provider's responsibilities as set forth in paragraph (D)(7) of this rule OAC 5123-2-9-12.

When a provider of assistive technology equipment purchases assistive technology equipment, the cost billed to the department shall be the lesser of the provider's usual and customary charge or the actual price plus acquisition costs of the item plus a reasonable percentage adequate to cover the cost of the provider's responsibilities as set forth in paragraph (D)(7) of this rule OAC 5123-2-9-12.

Purchase or rental of Assistive Technology equipment shall include, as appropriate, internet service fees, monthly fees, and the manufacturer's and seller's warranties.

There is a $5,000 limit per waiver span on Assistive Technology equipment. Payment arrangements must be agreed upon between the county board and the provider prior to claims submission. 

Authorization of services and associated costs are the responsibility of the county board based on the person’s needs and service that will best meet those needs, as agreed upon by the team.