1. Program Definition and Services

Assistive Technology (AT) Services in Utah provide for the evaluation, acquisition, customization, integration, and repair of specialized devices designed to maximize communication, learning, cognitive support, and physical safety. Operating across multiple HCBS waivers via the Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD), this program increases functional independence and reduces reliance on continuous human care. Services include:

• Technology Integration & Customization: Fulfilling specialized setups for speech-generating communication devices, adaptive keyboards, switches, smart-home automation (voice-activated environmental controls), and remote sensory safety tracking alerts
• Device Training & Repair: Delivering structural device orientation directly to the participant and their care team, alongside mechanical troubleshooting, software reprogramming, and hardware maintenance

2. Regulations

Operating requires compliance with Utah's established healthcare, administrative, and federal integration rules:

• Utah Administrative Code, Rule R539-2 (DSPD Service Provision Standards)
• Utah Administrative Code, Rule R156-42a (Occupational Therapy Practice Act Rules)
• Utah Public Procurement Rules & Open-Ended Request for Statement of Qualifications (RFSQ)
• Federal HCBS Final Settings Rule (42 CFR  441.301)

3. Licensing or Certification

Providers do not require an institutional health facility license to run an assistive technology business. Instead, companies must satisfy electronic criteria to be placed on the official DSPD Approved Vendor List (AVL). Individuals conducting formal clinical technology evaluations or diagnostic sensory fittings within the program must maintain valid state professional licensure through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).

4. Responsible State Agency

Two distinct divisions within the state health department share the responsibility of monitoring your program: The Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), via the Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD), manages individual technology budget ceilings, approves item allocations within the Individual Support Plan (ISP), and issues provider contract numbers. The Division of Integrated Healthcare (DIH) holds direct administrative command over underlying Medicaid system enrollment, revalidations, and claims payouts.

5. Application Process

Launching your agency involves a sequential process connecting your corporate structure to state networks:

• Register your business entity with the Utah Division of Corporations
• Establish secure user credentials by setting up an authorized Utah ID profile
• Log into the Medicaid web infrastructure to complete electronic enrollment via the PRISM portal
• Select the specific assistive technology or durable medical equipment (DME) provider type and corresponding taxonomy codes during configuration
• Apply directly to DSPD through the state's electronic procurement framework to execute an approved vendor contract

6. Required Documentation

To complete enrollment, you must compile and submit a folder of corporate credentials and operational guidelines:

• Corporate formation records, active Federal EIN, and Type 2 NPI registration screens
• Approved PRISM Medicaid confirmation notifications and executed DSPD vendor contract numbers
• Assistive Technology Services Policy & Procedure Manual (covering technological assessment tracking, delivery logs, warranty tracking, device return pathways, maintenance protocols, and data protection/HIPAA compliance)
• Verified background registry clearances for all field technicians or consultants sourced through the state portal
• Certificates of commercial general liability, professional/cyber liability (if handling remote monitoring setups), and state workers' compensation insurance

7. Timeline for Approval

The processing pipeline spanning PRISM portal activation, verification of technology specialties, and final execution of the electronic DSPD vendor contract typically takes 2 to 4 months.

8. Pre-Application Process

Form an LLC or Corporation with the Utah Division of Corporations, secure an EIN from the IRS, and register a corporate Type 2 National Provider Identifier (NPI) configured with specialized assistive technology, durable medical equipment, or community adaptation service taxonomy pathways.

9. Pre-Application Training

Before receiving participant referrals or fulfilling technology purchase orders, the agency's primary administrative managers must complete the online DSPD MySupport Provider Orientation training sequences and pass the required PRISM portal claims navigation modules.

10. Additional Notes

• All assistive technology devices must be backed by a formal functional assessment and clinical justification statement from a licensed professional (such as an OT, PT, Speech Therapist, or certified Assistive Technology Professional) before funding can be authorized
• Items that fall under standard Utah Medicaid State Plan paths such as basic medical equipment must be exhausted through State Plan channels first before specialized waiver funds can be utilized
• Staffing models are enhanced by employing personnel who hold national credentials, such as the RESNA Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) certification, to ensure compliance during specialized tech setups
• Providers must maintain documentation including signed delivery receipts, manufacturer warranty certificates, and participant-centered device training tracking logs to pass mandatory post-payment state Medicaid reviews

Why Choose Waiver Consulting Group?

Starting or expanding your Medicaid waiver-funded agency can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. At Waiver Consulting Group, we simplify the process by guiding you through licensing, compliance, provider enrollment, policies & procedures, and regulatory approvals in any state.

With proven expertise, a structured process, and ongoing support, we take the guesswork out of launching your healthcare business. Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or an established provider looking to expand, our team ensures you stay compliant, competitive, and fully operational.

To get started, click the link to request portal access