In the past few months I’ve had the great pleasure of working with children who have tried the new EasyStand Bantam Stander. Parents, teachers and therapists were thrilled with how well the child can stand, sit and position in the Bantam. They like how it fits naturally in the home and school, because the child can sit at a table, or stand to play or do activities, with or without a tray. It has much greater capabilities than other standers to facilitate frequent standing, to gain the most benefits derived from a weight bearing program.
One concern I am hearing is “Now that we know it is necessary for the child to stand, how are we going to find a way to pay for it?” Many parents and consumers are concerned lately because they hear about state and local governments cutting back. As much as this is true, standers are paid for by school systems, state Medicaid and private insurance. The key is to have the therapist identify several clear goals that the Bantam will achieve to improve or sustain the health of the child, and then have them attach one or two research articles that will back up the justification. Sometimes requests for standers are challenged for various reasons. The reviewer may be missing information or does not fully understand the benefits to the child, or sometimes they think that the child, teacher, or parent will not use it. So, everyone must be prepared to appeal the decision if the request is denied. Our health care system is often more focused on paying for problems when they arise, versus preventing the problems from occurring. If you feel strongly that standing is beneficial for your child, you must challenge the decision. You must be the stronger voice advocating good health for your child.
If you feel strongly that standing is beneficial for your child, you must appeal the decision. You must be the stronger voice advocating good health for your child.
What was your experience with getting funding for a standing frame or other medical equipment? If you went thru the appeals process, were you successful?
Great article Andy! We are getting positive feedback about the Bantam here as well. Thanks for pointing out that funding is achievable, but maybe require some work…as with many things in life.