Writing a Letter of Medical Necessity for Accessories, Replacement, or Repairs

So, you just realized that you forgot to consider an accessory when ordering a speech generating device?  Or your student has lost or broken something on it? Wow…that NEVER happens…right?!


Yep, it happens and now you have got to figure out how to buy it, replace it, or repair it but don’t know where to start.  Here is a handy guide to the general process. Tasks may be slightly different depending upon the individual’s insurance requirements, but it’s all very similar.  If you are ordering a new (or additional) mounting system, that would require a Rx and a letter from you (the SLP) stating the reasons why, but for general general purchases such as replacement of batteries or charging units, or repairs for things like broken handle, charging port, speakers, or screens, it’s a pretty simple process.  I’ve written it out here and you can also print the LMN sequence for later reference

STEP 1.  Identify the specifics of the new, missing, or broken accessory you need

  • Do you need replacement or repair?  Is this an ‘extra’ item that you just decided the child needs?

  • Find the item on the manufacturer’s website to get the model number or call the funding department to ask for help if not sure.  *NOTE: You’ll need the serial number from the device to identify the right items.

 STEP 2. Call the funding department for the device manufacturer

  • You will need to open a case and let them know what you are requesting and then follow the steps below to get the LMN sent to the doctor and returned to them. They will take it from there and get back with you if they need additional information.

 STEP 2. Contact the parent  

  • Let him/her know you are addressing this need and will be purchasing through the child's insurance; obtain permission to pursue.

  • Ask for a front and back copy of the insurance card

  • Get the name and phone number of the child's primary doctor

 STEP 3. Call the MD Office 

  • The MD will have an office manager or RN who handles things like this. Ask for that person, explain what you need, and get an email for sending in these kinds of requests.  

STEP 4.  Write up the letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) 

  • Use the attached LMN sample letter as a general body for your request.  Be sure to fill in the specific details on the letter as outlined.

 STEP 5.   Email the LMN to the doctor’s office  *use this email body to let them know that the info you are sending MUST be copied onto their office letterhead before they sign and fax it:

Dear Dr. _______________

I am the SLP addressing the communication needs of one of your young patients, ___name__.  

The student uses a ___name of device__ to communicate and the ___needed item ___ has broken, rendering it unusable. The treating SLP has requested a replacement to allow continued access.  As this accessory is an allowable item under insurance coverage, we need this Letter of Medical Necessity copied onto your office letterhead, signed, and faxed directly to manufacturer’s funding department at ___funding office fax #__.. 

SLP signature

Janice Reese

My name is Janice Reese and I LOVE assistive technology! I worked as an Occupational Therapist for more than 15 years, earned a Master’s degree in Education Technology, and I’m RESNA certified as an Assistive Technology Profession (ATP). I have worked in the school system for many years now and I love using technology to enhance the lives of children with disabilities. Since my first love is teaching, I’ve spent just as much time training wonderful teachers everywhere to use these tools in their classrooms. AT4Kids, llc was founded in 2008 in an effort to provide quality instruction and resources for teachers, therapists, student users and parents who wanted to know more about using AT.

I currently serve as Director of the Center for Assistive Technology, a state-supported program of the Little TN Valley Educational Cooperative. LTVEC is a non-profit agency whose goal is to provide rehabilitation services and accessibility supports for students with special needs in east Tennessee. My AT4Kids blog is designed to be as a one-stop resource for ideas and information for those wanting to learn more about the use of AT with children in the special education setting.

I hope to offer helpful hints, program and product reviews, AT recommendations, links to great new finds on the web, and lists of resources for “all things AT”.

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