Repair of LightWriters

[Russel, Mark]

Hello Kathy:
Before you send it in be sure to try the reset procedure.  The directions
are on the back of the device.  This fixes many problems.  If you send it to
Zygo and that's all it needs they'll still charge you the up front cost.
Medicaid buys Lightwriters;  therefore they pay for repairs.  It's
possible that Zygo won't accept Medicaid payment, but it's not true that
Medicaid won't pay for LightWriter repairs. That's my experience. Call me if
I can be of further help. Good luck
Mark Russel
CHRMC

-----Original Message-----
From: Kathleen Smith [mailto:ksmith at u.washington.edu]
Sent: Thursday, September 19, 2002 11:32 AM
To: Statewide forum on assistive-technology issues
Subject: Repair of LightWriters


Hi
We are seeking information about Zygo's policy on funding repairs of
LightWriters for Medicaid/Medicare clients. One of my clients was told he
had to pay $250.00 up front before Zygo would start the repair procedure.
Another of my clients with Medicaid funding had her device shipped back to
her with message Zygo does not repair LightWriters for Medicaid clients. I
called Zygo twice about its policy and the woman said she is still getting
an answer but all she  knew was that Washington state Medicaid does not
pay
for LightWriter repairs.
Has anyone gotten a LightWriter repaired recently that was funded by
Medicare or Medicaid? What was the process?
Thank you for your help.


Kathy Smith, M.S.P.A., C.C.C.
Augmentative Communication Specialist
Fircrest School
phone:(206)361-3163
email ksmith at u.washington.edu