Communication Devices for the Autism Population

Find information about communication devices available for MassHealth members under 21 diagnosed with Autism.

What is a speech-generating device (SGD)?

A speech-generating device (SGD) is a piece of equipment (for example, a tablet) used to communicate by people with severe speech impairment who can’t communicate by speaking or by alternatives to speaking, such as writing and sign language.  

There are two types of SGDs available through MassHealth.

Dedicated SGDs primarily serve a medical purpose (for example, only for expressive communication) in such a way that they’re generally not useful if there isn’t a disability, illness, or injury. These devices require prior authorization (PA), which is submitted by a durable medical equipment (DME) provider.

Non-dedicated SGDs, such as tablets and their cases, are designed for non-medical purposes and are generally useful when there’s no disability, illness, or injury. Non-dedicated devices  aren’t considered medical devices. PA is submitted by a MassHealth-enrolled speech-language pathologist (SLP) or their staff. 

How do I get a speech-generating device (SGD)?

Your physician and/or speech therapist can request an SGD for you. First, they’ll get all the documents that you need. These documents include an evaluation, a PA, and information about the data-driven trial that you completed. 

Then your physician or speech therapist will refer to MassHealth’s medical necessity guidelines to determine if you qualify for an SGD. If you do, they’ll submit a request to MassHealth for you.

Tablets for communication for MassHealth members

You or your child may be able to get a tablet for communication. Here are the requirements.

You must have

• MassHealth Standard;
• MassHealth CommonHealth; or 
• MassHealth Care Plus;

or you must be enrolled in

• a MassHealth-contracted accountable care partnership plan (ACPP);
• a primary care accountable care organization (PCACO);
• a managed care organization (MCO); or
• the PCC Plan. 

You or your child must also meet all of the following qualifications.

• You’re younger than 21. 
• You have a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder.
• You meet MassHealth’s medical necessity requirements.