Find information on medical equipment and assistive technology to address special healthcare needs. In addition, find resources and funding to access this equipment.
The System of Technology to Achieve Results (STAR) program’s mission is to help all Minnesotans with disabilities gain access to and acquire the assistive technology they need to live, learn, work and play.
The Minnesota Council on Disability helps individuals with disabilities need to rely on physical access features to access shops, restaurants, theaters, healthcare clinics and conduct activities for daily living. Disability parking spaces, accessible entrances, elevators and wheelchair accessible restroom compartments all serve to make participation possible.
MN NEAT hosts live webinars where the audience can hear from experts and ask questions. MN DHS attends these webinars to provide guidance on funding and policy related questions about how the technology is supported/used.
You may need additional assistance with communication. There is a lifeline program for low-income consumers. It provides a discount on phone services for low income Minnesotans. Having an effective way of communicating is important as it helps you connect with jobs, family, friends and emergency services.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has resources for you. Lifeline is the FCC's program to help make communications services more affordable for low-income consumers. Lifeline provides subscribers a discount on monthly telephone service purchased from participating providers in the marketplace.
Telephone Equipment Distribution is a program that provides telephone equipment to people who are deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing or who have a speech or physical disability and need adaptive equipment in order to use the phone. Equipment is loaned at no cost to those who qualify, for as long as it is needed.
Talk To Me Technologies works to match clients with a speech device that works for them and not the other way around. They are funding resources, AAC devices and systems, loan programs and other support.
Home modification and equipment to modify your home can be an expensive endeavor. It is important to work to ensure that you are working with Access Specialists who understand accessibility, building codes, and can help guide you through the process. Paying for home modifications and equipment can be costly. There are a variety of ways to access monies to assist with these costs through different programs. See below to learn about potential funding options.
MN Housing provides a wide array of programs that may be able to assist with costs or offer low interest fix up loans to help with these modifications.
Some participants who utilize Medicaid Waiver programs may be able to obtain assistance with the costs.
Technology for HOME offers a team approach to person centered assistive technology (AT) consultation and technical assistance to help individuals with disabilities live more independently. People who want to stay home or move home direct the outcome; they assist with the technology resources. The AT consultant will provide possible solutions and communicate with the county to develop a plan.
Medical assistance may cover the cost of medical equipment and supplies, such as diapers and other resources. All MHCP members are eligible for coverage. Exceptions to coverage are indicated in the Programs and Services section of the MHCP provider manual. For more information go to Benefits at a Glance.
