AbleNet Funding Process Family FAQ

Getting a speech-generating device for your loved one shouldn’t feel complicated. We know you’re navigating insurance requirements, medical forms, and unfamiliar terminology—all while focusing on what matters most: helping your loved one communicate. This FAQ walks you through the funding process for the QuickTalker Freestyle in straightforward terms. You’ll find clear answers about what documents you need, who signs what, and what to expect along the way. We’re here to support you at every step.

What is a speech-generating device (SGD)?
  • Also known as voice output communication aids, SGDs are used to supplement or replace speech or writing for individuals with severe speech impairments, enabling them to verbally communicate.
Who should sign the Medical Release form?
  • Legal Guardian: The legal guardian should sign the form if the patient is a minor or incapable of signing the form.
  • Patient: The patient should sign if they are not a minor and fully understand the nature of the document. Additionally, they can sign with an X if they fully understand what they are signing but have a physical disability preventing them from including their full signature.
What documents are required by insurance for the QuickTalker Freestyle?
  • Medical Release: This form is to be signed by the patient/legal guardian at the very beginning of the funding process before we are able to ship the QuickTalker Freestyle.
  • Speech Evaluation: This document is submitted to AbleNet from the speech therapist after the ableEXPERIENCE.
  • Physician Order Form: This form requires the client’s doctor to indicate the QuickTalker Freestyle is needed for the client.
What is the parent/caregiver form?
  • This form allows AbleNet to remain HIPAA compliant by giving us permission to contact your loved one’s speech therapist and primary care doctor to obtain all of the necessary documents that are required. The Medical Release form is signed within the parent/caregiver form. This form also grants AbleNet permission to use technology to contact you (text messages, phone calls, etc.) and asks you to agree to the End-User License Agreement, which is required for the prescribed speech app.
Why does AbleNet need to reach out to my loved one’s primary care doctor?
  • Great question! While speech therapists can diagnose speech issues, they are unable to write a prescription for the device. Additionally, some insurance companies require a doctor’s appointment within a certain time frame to approve the QuickTalker Freestyle.
Why is a prescription required for my loved one’s speech device?
  • Speech devices are considered Durable Medical Equipment and are categorized similar to a CPAP machine. In order for your insurance provider to pay for the equipment, a prescription is required.
Does the prescribing doctor have to be my loved one’s primary care provider?
  • Not always. Some insurance providers require a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) or Doctor of Medicine (MD) to sign the DME order, chart notes and other specific forms. Other insurances, however, allow nurse practitioners, physician assistants and other health care providers to execute the DME order and accompanying forms. Please note – speciality doctors such as psychiatrists and emergency medicine (ER) doctors should not be asked to sign the DME order.
Do I have to pay for the QuickTalker Freestyle?
  • Only if your insurance has a co-pay, coinsurance, or deductible will you then be responsible for an out-of-pocket cost/patient responsibility.
I don’t want to sign the parent form until I have a conversation with my speech therapist – is that okay?
  • Yes! That is definitely okay. Please also know that signing the parent form doesn’t lock you into the process and you can opt out to close your file at any given time without incurring any fees.
Why does my speech therapist need to write an evaluation?
  • Insurance companies require an evaluation written by a licensed speech therapist in order to consider the device for funding. Each insurance company has its own set of requirements for what is needed in the speech evaluation.
Can my loved one try the QuickTalker Freestyle without committing to purchasing it?
  • Yes! After we receive your signed parent/caregiver form, we will work diligently to get the QuickTalker Freestyle shipped as quickly as possible to give your loved one a hands-on opportunity to try the device and see if it’s a good fit for them.

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