Navigating CRT for Your Child

New to the world of mobility equipment? Don’t worry! This article will help you navigate your child’s mobility journey with confidence.

For a child with mobility issues, Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) equipment can open doors to greater mobility and independence for the entire family. But the process of finding the right mobility solution for your child can be a little overwhelming.

But don’t worry! The world of CRT is filled with tools to help your child thrive in and around your home, including car seats, strollers, wheelchairs, gait trainers, standers, and more. This guide will help you navigate your child’s CRT journey with confidence.

Start Early

If you suspect a delay in your child’s mobility of physical development, don’t wait! Talk to your pediatrician about your concerns and ask about a referral for physical or occupational therapy. Taking these steps early on will give you a better understanding of your child’s needs. 

Believe it or not, children as young as one year old can benefit from standers, and some children may begin exploring power mobility shortly after their first birthday. If your child isn’t meeting traditional milestones, like crawling or walking, it’s important to talk with your physician about your concerns as early as possible.

Find the Right Team

If you’re new to the world of CRT, you may not be familiar with the idea of a seating clinic. Seating and mobility clinics are specialized medical services where trained professionals will evaluate your child to determine the most appropriate mobility equipment to fit his or her needs and goals. 

At an established seating and mobility clinic, you’ll have access to occupational and physical therapists who specialize in body positioning, function and mobility as well as Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs) from a CRT supplier who are trained experts on recommending and fitting CRT equipment. You may also have a chance to try out different types of equipment so you can better determine what works best for your child—and fits into your life, home and vehicle. 

Finding the right medical provider and physical therapist is the best place to start when building your child’s mobility care team. These professionals often already have an established relationship with a CRT supplier and can streamline the process by connecting you with a supplier in your area. However, if you live in a small or rural community, consider reaching out directly to a local CRT supplier for guidance. They can often help connect you with appropriate medical professionals in your area.

Partner with Your CRT Supplier

The world of CRT can be confusing and overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make the best decisions for your child. Your CRT supplier is on your team and wants to provide solutions that make life easier for CRT users and their families. You have a shared goal: to help your child live his or her most independent life—and your CRT supplier has experience in providing CRT users with tailored mobility solutions that fit their lifestyles. If a particular mobility solution doesn’t live up to its potential or needs modifications, your CRT supplier is available to work with you and your child to find a solution that works.

Be Patient.

The process to get quality CRT equipment can take time. Here’s a general overview of what to expect. 

1. Referral: Your child’s doctor or therapist confirms your child would benefit from mobility equipment and recommends an evaluation. 
2. Scheduling the evaluation(s). Work with your therapist, CRT supplier or seating clinic to schedule a seating evaluation. 
3. Research recommended equipment: Do your homework after the evaluation to ensure the recommended mobility solution works for your child and fits your life (home, school, vehicle, travel, etc.) 
4. Documentation: While your CRT supplier will gather the needed documentation, you can help by knowing your health insurance carrier’s requirements and working with your provider to ensure documents are collected from different members of your child’s care team—doctor, therapist, you—in a timely manner. Learn more. 
5. Insurance Submission: Your CRT supplier will submit all required documentation to your health plan to obtain prior authorization. It will take time for a decision, sometimes up to 30 days. Additional time may be added if prior authorization is denied or deferred for more information. If there is a partial approval, your CRT supplier will help you determine your out-of-pocket responsibility. 
6. Ordering and Assembly: Once approved, your CRT supplier will order and assemble the CRT equipment for your child. 
7. Delivery and Fitting: Your CRT supplier will deliver the CRT equipment and make sure it fits your child. 
8. Follow Up: Set up a plan with your therapist for growth adjustments every six months to a year. Most pediatric CRT equipment is designed to last 3-5 years, and new equipment may be needed as your child’s needs and goals change as he or she matures. 

Find Your Community

As a parent navigating CRT for your child, you’re not alone! Stay connected to other parents, caregivers and CRT users by attending events like the Abilities Expo and joining online support groups. 

Navigating CRT decisions for your child can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth it so your child can experience his or her greatest levels of mobility and independence. Every child is different, but with early action, expert support and determination, your family can roll confidently into a future full of possibilities.