This bill requires health insurance plans to cover augmentative and alternative communication tools for individuals aged 22 and younger when prescribed by qualified healthcare providers. The legislation defines these tools broadly to include speech-generating devices, communication software, tablets, and related accessories necessary for individuals with expressive communication disabilities. Coverage includes the full cost of standard devices up to $6,000, with an additional $14,000 allowance for enhanced tools when a speech-language pathologist documents that standard options are insufficient. The bill also mandates coverage for device replacement every five years or sooner if needed due to physical changes, repair needs, or communication requirements, along with related services like training and temporary loaner devices.
This bill establishes a formal process for expanding the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) to new areas in the state that currently lack PACE services. It requires the Department of Aging to issue a request for proposals from interested entities, with submissions due within 90 days of the announcement. To qualify, applicants must submit a feasibility study, hold valid provider agreements, meet federal requirements, demonstrate experience serving frail older adults, and have or plan to have a suitable facility in their proposed service area. The Department will review proposals and select qualified entities, which can then apply to federal authorities for approval to begin services within two years. The bill also allows the Department to expand the program through other methods if needed and sets uniform rates for new PACE organizations.
To amend sections 107.56, 126.42, 340.04, 4743.09, 4745.04, 4757.41, 4758.01, 4758.02, 4758.03, 4758.10, 4758.11, 4758.12, 4758.13, 4758.15, 4758.16, 4758.17, 4758.20, 4758.21, 4758.22, 4758.221, 4758.23, 4758.24, 4758.25, 4758.26, 4758.27, 4758.28, 4758.29, 4758.30, 4758.31, 4758.32, 4758.35, 4758.36, 4758.39, 4758.40, 4758.41, 4758.42, 4758.43, 4758.44, 4758.45, 4758.46, 4758.47, 4758.48, 4758.51, 4758.54, 4758.55, 4758.56, 4758.57, 4758.59, 4758.62, 4758.63, 4758.64, 4758.70, 4758.72, 4776.01, 4776.20, 5119.94, and 5122.15; to enact sections 4758.011, 4758.38, 4758.49, 4758.491, 4758.65, 4758.651, 4758.66, and 4758.661; and to repeal section 4758.52 of the Revised Code to change the name of the Chemical Dependency Professionals Board to the Behavioral Health Professionals Board, to require the Board to certify peer supporters and qualified mental health professionals, and to make other changes to the laws governing the Board and the professionals it regulates.
