Queensland
Government Funding
Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (MASS)
http://www.health.qld.gov.au/mass/communicationaids.asp
MASS is the main provider of subsidy funding for the provision of aids and equipment to Queensland residents with permanent and stabilised conditions or disabilities. The range of MASS aids and equipment is selected to assist people to live at home and avoid premature or inappropriate residential care or hospitalisation. Aids and equipment are subsidy funded either on a permanent loan basis, private ownership or through the purchase of consumables.
Some important points:
- The scheme operates on a prescriber model, where health professionals apply for aids and equipment on behalf of their clients
- Clients may be eligible for assistance if they are a permanent resident of Queensland, have a permanent and stabilised condition or disability and hold a pensioner concession card, health care card or Queensland Government Seniors Card in their own right. Clients will also need to meet the MASS clinical eligibility criteria for communication aids. http://www.health.qld.gov.au/mass/docs/procedures/prescriberprodecure.doc
- MASS provides subsidy funding for a range of communication aids – artificial larynges, speech generating devices, voice amplification devices and communication software (excluding mainstream apps)
- Communication aids must be trialed as part of the application process to ensure suitability: http://www.health.qld.gov.au/mass/docs/resources/commtrialdevicefaq.pdf
There are two main MASS centres for Communication Aid applications:
- Brisbane MASS service centre Ph: 3250 8651 for clients residing in the area from the NSW border to south of Sarina
OR
- Mackay MASS service centre Ph: 4968 3931 for clients residing in the area from Sarina northwards and west to the state border.
Independent Living Centres Australia (ILEP)
The Independent Living Centres Australia (ILC) is the first stop for information on funding for residents of Australia who have moderate or severe disabilities.