Assistive Technology Services in Missouri provide individuals with disabilities access to specialized devices and technologies that support independence, communication, mobility, and safety. These services are designed to enhance quality of life and enable individuals to participate more fully in their communities. Assistive Technology Services are available under Missouri’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers.

1. GOVERNING AGENCIES

Agency: Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS)

Role: Administers Medicaid and HCBS Waiver programs, including assistive technology services

Agency: Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS)

Role: Oversees Medicaid provider enrollment and service authorization

Agency: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Role: Provides federal oversight and ensures waiver compliance

2. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICE OVERVIEW

Assistive Technology Services focus on providing and maintaining devices that assist individuals in their daily lives. Services are tailored according to the Individual Service Plan (ISP) or Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and may include:

• Communication devices (e.g., speech-generating devices, text-to-speech systems)
• Mobility aids (e.g., powered wheelchairs, stair lifts)
• Sensory aids (e.g., hearing aids, visual assistance tools)
• Environmental controls (e.g., smart home adaptations, adaptive switches)
• Adaptive software and computer access tools
• Training and support on device usage and maintenance

3. LICENSING & PROVIDER APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

Prerequisites:

• Register business with the Missouri Secretary of State
• Obtain EIN from the IRS and NPI (Type 2)
• Enroll as a Medicaid provider with the Missouri Department of Social Services
• Obtain Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Supplier License if applicable
• Maintain liability insurance and documentation of device safety standards

4. MEDICAID PROVIDER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Step 1: Pre-Application Contact

• Contact the Missouri Department of Social Services to understand assistive technology provider requirements

Step 2: Application Submission

• Submit business registration, DME license (if required), liability insurance, and service descriptions

Step 3: Compliance Verification

• Ensure devices meet state and federal safety standards

Step 4: Approval and Medicaid Number Assignment

• Once approved, receive a Medicaid provider number and authorization to deliver services

5. SCOPE OF WORK

• Articles of Incorporation or Business Name Registration
• IRS EIN Letter
• NPI confirmation
• DME Supplier License (if applicable)
• Liability insurance certificate

Policy & procedure manual including:

• Client intake and assessment protocols
• Device procurement and quality assurance procedures
• User training and support documentation
• Maintenance and repair logs
• Staff training and certification records

6. STAFFING REQUIREMENTS

Role: Assistive Technology Coordinator

Requirements: Experience in rehabilitation technology or assistive device services

Role: Technician / Device Specialist

Requirements:

• Technical training in device setup and maintenance
• Background check and clean driving record

Training Requirements:

• Safe installation and device configuration
• Client training on usage and maintenance
• Safety and risk management
• Documentation and compliance protocols

7. MEDICAID WAIVER SERVICES

Assistive Technology Services in Missouri are available through:

• Aged and Disabled Waiver (ADW)
• Independent Living Waiver
• Medically Fragile Adult Waiver

Approved providers may deliver:

• Assessment and customization of assistive devices
• Training on device usage and maintenance
• Ongoing support and equipment upgrades

8. TIMELINE TO LAUNCH

Phase: Business Formation

Timeline: 1–2 weeks

Phase: Medicaid Provider Enrollment

Timeline: 60–90 days

Phase: Staff Hiring and Training

Timeline: 30–45 days

Phase: Device Procurement and Safety Compliance

Timeline: 2–4 weeks

9. CONTACT INFORMATION

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS)

Website: https://health.mo.gov

Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS)

Website: https://mydss.mo.gov

10. SCOPE OF WORK

• Business registration and licensing assistance
• Medicaid provider enrollment
• Policy & procedure manual for assistive technology operations
• Templates for client assessment forms and device usage logs
• Website, domain, and email setup
• Staff credentialing and training documentation
• Client intake packet and assistive device planning forms
• Risk management and safety monitoring
• Referral networking with rehabilitation specialists and healthcare providers