The ACCESS Program serves intermediate units across Pennsylvania. It is a cooperative effort of the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Through ACCESS, the BCIU Preschool Early Intervention Program can be reimbursed for health-related services provided to students who are eligible for special education. In order for reimbursement to occur, each special needs student must have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), and parents or guardians must complete a Medical Assistance (MA) application.
Through parent participation in the ACCESS Program, Early Intervention has the opportunity to develop and provide additional quality services to our students. Each incoming ACCESS dollar strengthens the Early Intervention Program and enhances the support given to the students in our community. Examples of expenses paid with ACCESS funds include the following:
Having Medical Assistance (MA) will in no way interfere with your personal health insurance. Applying for MA is completely voluntary. Information on your application is shared only with Early Intervention staff, a doctor or certified nurse practitioner to determine your child’s eligibility, and Public Consulting Group (PDE’s contractor for billing purposes).
To enroll in MA, complete a hard copy of the Health Care Coverage Application (English Version or Version Espanola) or visit www.compass.state.pa.us.
Include a copy of your child’s IEP when mailing your application. If you need assistance completing the paperwork, call the Berks County Assistance Office at 610-736-4211 or the BCIU Preschool Early Intervention Program at 610-987-8371.