Recently, I discussed the generally unfavorable state of affairs around health insurance for speech therapy services. Despite this, all is not lost. Not by any means! Many of my own clients are able to take advantage of out-of-network speech therapy benefits for health care reimbursement, which can provide a significant savings for families. In this same vein, a previous post of mine covered Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Today’s post focuses on what parents need to know in order to access those precious out-of-network speech and language therapy benefits. As with anything insurance-related, initially it can be a bit complicated. The hope is that, armed with this information, you will be better able to get the benefits you actually pay for, and in as timely a manner as possible.
Taking Speech Therapy on the Road- 3 Language Activities while Traveling
Speech Therapy TechniquesWith spring break in full swing, parents and children are taking to their cars and minivans for fun-filled family road trips. After you gas up the car, fill the tires, check the transmission and your camping trailer, consider how you can incorporate language learning into the trip. If you have a youngster you probably know that keeping them occupied in the car can be a challenge, but if you have language learning in mind you can come up with some fun and engaging activities. Speech-therapy techniques often rely on creativity, and the car is no different. Though it might not seem as though you have a lot of materials, and while you might have some handy mobile devices or DVD players, here are some suggestioned speech and language activities for a road trip that the whole family can enjoy.
Demystifying Healthcare Coverage
Financial ResourcesDoes your healthcare plan cover speech therapy? No idea? Ask your employer for the packet or book with the comprehensive explanation of benefits. Check the table of contents for sections labeled something like “Speech-Language Pathology,” “Hearing Care,” “Audiology,” or “Speech and Language Benefits.” If you don’t see any of these sections, check for a rehabilitation section or an “Other Services and Therapies” section. You may also find hearing and speech assessment coverage listed under diagnostics.