Insurance Coverage for Language Disorders

Language disorders are conditions that inhibit normal human speech and communication. They range from aphasia caused by stroke to difficulty forming words due to a physical deformity such as a cleft palate. They affect the voice, mouth, throat and the brain. Despite their medical needs, patients with these disorders often find it difficult to navigate the insurance system.

Services

• Services covered by insurance tend to be rehabilitation for stroke, and in some cases speech therapy to correct conditions such as stuttering. Many services are not covered at all, or only in certain circumstances.

Coverage

• Insurance coverage varies from one policy to another. Many policies cover the services for a specific period of time, with the option to renew coverage for an additional fee, according to the American Stroke Association.

Stipulations

• Pre-existing language disorders are, of course, not covered. Insurance companies also put a limit to the number of treatment sessions, so urge your therapist to set goals for each session to help map your progress.

Exclusions

• Those with developmental language disorders are often denied coverage for speech and audiological therapy, according to the Ohio Speech Language Hearing Association. These disorders include autism, apraxia and even stuttering. However, organizations such as the public school system may have free programs to help children. Adults may be able to seek help from state-sponsored programs, though they vary by state.