Funds for assistive technology come from many sources. There are both Federal and local programs that provide support. There are also many private insurance groups that will help fund assistive technology.  In Hawai`i, assistive technology is usually paid for if it falls under one of the following categories:

• Prosthetic devices
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy, speech, hearing and language therapy
• Rehabilitation services
• Eyeglasses
• Preventive services
• Intermediate Care Facilities for Persons with Mental Retardation
• Community Supported Living Arrangements Program

It is sometimes difficult to determine what program will pay for equipment. Sometimes you need to get approval ahead of time. "Durable medical equipment" is usually covered if your doctor says you need it. These can include wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes, and many other devices. It is best to ask your physician about rules and medical coverage. It is also important that you ask your physician for a detailed and complete recommendation.

Hawai'i Medicaid Program
The Hawai'i Medicaid Program is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS). It pays for medical care for individuals and families with low income and resources. Services are on a fee-for-service basis. This means that Medicaid does not directly supply assistive technology or give cash grants to recipients. Instead, it directly reimburses providers for medical equipment, services and supplies. Individuals who are age 65 and over, or certified blind or disabled will usually qualify for Medicaid. For all other individuals, coverage is provided under Hawai'i QUEST.

Hawai`i QUEST
Hawai`i QUEST is a state program. It provides health coverage for eligible Hawai`i residents. QUEST is administered by the Department of Human Services. Services are provided by managed care health organizations. Each managed care health plan approves requests for assistive technology. If approval is denied by either Medicaid or by a QUEST plan, there are appeals processes available.

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is an expansion of the QUEST and Medicaid fee-for-service programs. This is a program for, children ages 0 to 19 years of age, who live in Hawai`i. They must have working parents who meet certain family income levels.

QUEST-Net
QUEST-Net is for people who no longer qualify for QUEST or Medicaid due to income limits. Participants pay a monthly fee based on their annual income.

SAGE PLUS
Hawai`i's Executive Office on Aging administers SAGE PLUS. It is a health insurance counseling program for people age 60 and older, their families and caregivers. SAGE provides statewide health insurance information, counseling and referrals. Trained volunteers provide one-on-one counseling by telephone or in person. Individuals learn about the benefits of SAGE PLUS and receive assistance in completing forms. If necessary, counselors contact other agencies for information on obtaining assistive technology devices or services.

HAT Loan Program
The Hawai`i Assistive Technology (HAT) Loan Program is a joint effort of the Assistive Technology Resource Centers of Hawai`i (ATRC) and American Savings Bank. This program offers low-interest loans for the purchase of assistive technology devices and services. American Savings Bank, which administers the loan program, processes all applications.

Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals age 65 or older. The program reduces the out-of-pocket expenses for health services. Medicare may also cover someone under age 65 depending on their disability. There is no cost for Medicare if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while you worked. If you have not paid any Medicare taxes, the cost of services may be fully or partially paid for by a state agency.

Medicare covers medical devices provided by a hospital, skilled nursing facility, home health agency, hospice, comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facility or rural health clinic. It also covers durable medical equipment prescribed by a doctor for home use. Eligibility for assistive technology devices depends on the individual's condition and the device needed.