Communication aids

Subsidy funding is available under the Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (MASS) to support eligible Queenslanders who require a communication aid.

Available equipment

• Artificial larynges.
• Speech generating devices.
• Voice amplification devices.
• iPads with AAC Communication Software.
• Communication software that allows a client to communicate with voice output using displays of symbols, words, a keyboard or a combination of these.
• Approved accessories for communication aids such as charger, carry case, moisture guards, keyguards and basic accessing devices/switches.
• Specialised accessories required to access a speech generating device, such as wheelchair mounting systems, switch mounts, and specialised switches/accessing devices.

MASS does not subsidise

• software programs for the sole purpose of producing AAC resources
• laptop or desktop computers
• voice prostheses
• low-tech communication aids.

Eligible prescribers

All speech pathologists in Queensland are eligible prescribers for MASS communication aids.

How to prescribe

To ensure the most suitable communication aid is prescribed, you must trial the equipment adequately. This applies to all types of communication devices – artificial larynges, voice amplification devices, communication software and speech generating devices. To trial MASS stock communication aids, use the Communication Aids Trial Information and Request to Trial Stock Form (PDF 806 kB)

For Speech Generating Devices, this should involve at least two trials over a two to four week period with the applicant, family members and the applicant’s team. This allows you to make an informed decision about the most suitable device for the applicant’s language, communication and access needs. Prescribers can use the Communication Aids Trial Information and Proforma Form (PDF 1126 kB) This is NOT an application form, but can be submitted to support the application. It can assist in documenting:

• the applicant’s success in communicating messages
• ease of access and set up of additional equipment
• capacity to meet changing needs now and in the future
• suitability in a range of environments eg. home environment, portability, volume
• suitability of communication partners
• applicant preferences
• ability of family and team to use, support and maintain the device and any accessories.

To access an aid to trial, prescribers need to contact commercial suppliers, below. For advice, please contact the MASS Principal Communication Aids Advisor

Once a suitable device has been selected, work with the client to complete the relevant application forms for the type of equipment requested. Specific eligibility, application and documentation requirements are provided in both the MASS General Guidelines (PDF 428 kB) and specific application guidelines for the type of aid.

MASS expects that communication aids will last a minimum of five years. The device should not need to be replaced within this time unless the client’s condition changes and they need a different device.

Application guidelines (including current subsidy amounts)

• Application Guidelines for Artificial Larynges (PDF 264 kB)
• Application Guidelines for iPad with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Communication Software (PDF 286 kB)
• Application Guidelines for Speech Generating Devices (PDF 281 kB)
• Application Guidelines for Voice Amplification Devices (PDF 261 kB)

Application forms

MASS-eApply (online applications) is the preferred method of application submission. To register click here or for further information click here.

• Login to MASS-eApply to complete online Communication Aids Application
• MASS 21 - Communication Aids Application Form (PDF 1209 kB) (to be completed by all applicants)
• Communication Aids Trial Information and Proforma Form (PDF 1126 kB)

MASS STOCK

MASS holds a selection of second hand communication aids which are available for reissue. Refer to the following information for a list of equipment and the process for trial: MASS stock equipment (updated February 2024)

Information for clients

• Communication aids - frequently asked questions
• Applicant Information Sheet - Application for Communication Aids (PDF 198 kB)

Maintenance

• Communication Aids Information Sheet (PDF 161 kB)
• Artificial Larynx Care Information Sheet (PDF 127 kB)
• Voice Amplification Device Care Information Sheet (PDF 144 kB)
• Speech Generating Device Care Information Sheet (PDF 147 kB)

Advice and clinical support

Communication Aids Trials information and Pro Forma (PDF 1126 kB)

Please contact the MASS Principal Communication Aids Advisor.