Several years ago funds were appropriated for a program to provide assistive technology devices and services to individuals in South Dakota who have Muscular Dystrophy (MD) Multiple Scleroses (MS) or Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS).  The program is referred to as our Neuromuscular Program (NMP).  The Individuals who receive equipment are asked to sign a Conditions of Acceptance form agreeing to return equipment if it is no longer being used as intended.  The NMP no longer has funding to purchase new equipment but does have ongoing funding to assess equipment needs and for the delivery, setup and training on the devices that have been returned and we have available in out inventory.  The information below explains the Mission, Eligibility and Scope of services available through the NMP.

NEUROMUSCULAR PROGRAM

Mission, Eligibility and Scope

Mission - to provide assistive technology devices to individuals with neuromuscular diseases that will help a caregiver or family member take care of their loved ones in their home.

Program Purpose - The purpose of the Neuromuscular Program is to eliminate or significantly reduce the need for an individual to be placed in a nursing home. This is accomplished through the provision of Assistive Technology Devices that will allow the individual or their loved ones to provide or receive the care needed to allow them to remain living at home.

ELIGIBILITY FOR SERVICES

• The individual must have Muscular Dystrophy (MD) Multiple Scleroses (MS) or Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS).
• The neuromuscular disease must have progressed to the point that the individual requires regular assistance from a family member or other care provider. Without this assistance being provided in the individual’s home, they would need to be placed in a nursing facility to get the care that they require.
• The assistive technology devices provided must benefit the individual or caregiver by allowing the individual to stay in their home or apartment instead of going to a nursing home.
• The individual must be a state resident - An individual is considered a resident of South Dakota if the individual:

1) Is living in South Dakota, not receiving any form of public assistance from another state or

2) Is a resident of South Dakota and has no intention of moving out of the state but is temporarily absent for a period not longer than 9 months.

Scope of Services Includes – The scope of services are limited to funds and devices available. The scope of services do not include medical supplies, medications, telecommunication equipment, employment related services, or devices that can be purchased through other funding sources. The NMP will not purchase a vehicle, home, build a home, remodel a home to make it accessible and will not provide any modifications to the structure of the residence. The State of South Dakota reserves the right to determine what is reasonable and which devices are within the scope of services.

Applying for NMP services – An individual may apply for services by contacting the Division of Rehabilitation Services by calling (605) 773-3195 or sending an e-mail to: http://www.dhs.sd.gov/contact.aspx  ,refer to the NMP so your request can be directed to the appropriate staff.

Questions – Questions about Neuromuscular Program (NMP) should be referred South Dakota Division of Rehabilitation Services, Hillsview Plaza, E. Hwy 34, C/O 500 E Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501 or call (605) 773-3195.