At Coral Care, we believe every child deserves a way to communicate.
If your child is exploring Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), we’re here to guide your family through every step of the journey—from the first evaluation to receiving a speech-generating device (SGD) through insurance.
This guide explains what you can expect, how Coral Care supports you, and what your role will be in the process.
The path to AAC is a little different from a typical therapy evaluation.
That’s because insurance companies require detailed documentation, trial data, and justification before they will cover the cost of a speech-generating device.
To make this easier and more family-friendly, Coral Care follows a 3-step evaluation process.
Before the trial begins, your child’s SLP will complete a foundational communication evaluation. This involves:
From there, the SLP selects 1–2 AAC systems that are most likely to support your child’s needs. These systems may differ in software, access method, or layout. These trial devices are often borrowed free of charge for a few weeks.
👉 What you’ll do:
→ Share how your child communicates at home
→ Help identify routines and situations where communication support is needed
→ Sign a consent form outlining the full process and trial fee (explained below)
An AAC trial is a short period where your child tries one or more AAC systems to see how well they support communication. This is where the real learning begins. Your child will use the selected AAC system(s) in daily life and therapy sessions. The SLP will support your family in using the device effectively and will be closely observing your child’s response.
During this phase, your SLP will:
As a parent or caregiver, your role is key:
Your insights help build the case for the best-fitting device and long-term success.
After the trial, your SLP will conduct a second evaluation to review everything learned. They will:
The report is submitted to your child’s insurance provider, along with supporting documents from medical providers and caregivers.
Once the report is submitted:The insurance company begins its review, which may take several weeks.
They may ask for additional documents or clarifications.
You may need to sign forms like a certificate of medical necessity.
Once approved, the device is ordered and shipped to your home or to your therapist.
When it arrives, your therapist will help set it up, personalize it, and provide ongoing training and support to make sure it’s used effectively.
We know AAC can feel like a big leap—and we’re here to walk with you the entire way.Here’s how we continue to support your family throughout the process:
We’ll help you understand what to expect, choose the right systems to try, and answer any questions.
You’ll receive training, check-ins, and session-based support to make sure the system is working in real life—not just in therapy.
Once your child’s device is approved, we help with setup, customization, and making sure the device fits your family’s routines.
Many families continue working with their Coral Care therapist on language development, modeling, and expanding AAC use after the device arrives.
We can offer strategies for modeling AAC, building communication across settings (e.g., daycare, school, home), and involving siblings or other caregivers.
With your permission, we’re happy to share updates with your child’s school team or other providers to ensure consistent support.
There is a one-time trial setup fee of $250, which covers:
→ Coordination with AAC vendors
→ Custom programming of the trial device
→ Provider time outside of sessions to prepare materials and tools
The remainder of the evaluation process—including therapy sessions and the final funding report—is billed to your child’s insurance.
Coral Care will verify your coverage and keep you informed of any out-of-pocket costs in advance.If the device is approved, the copay due for the AAC system is also billed through your insurance by the AAC vendor.