INITIAL DIAGNOSIS

A clinical exam is an essential part of the diagnostic process.

The only requirement for receiving an evaluation at an MDA clinic is the written recommendation of a physician in whose judgment a person may have one of the neuromuscular diseases covered by the Association’s medical services program.

If the disease diagnosed is not one covered by MDA, appropriate referrals will be made to the health agency or agencies covering the specific illness diagnosed. If no such health agency exists, a referral will be made to an appropriate community agency.

A physician’s statement of diagnosis must be filed with the
Association for the person to receive the MDA services described in this brochure. The initial diagnostic examination is a singular exception to this policy.

PAYMENT FOR AUTHORIZED MEDICAL SERVICES

It is the policy of MDA to assist with payment only for those services authorized in its program that are not covered by private or public insurance plans or other community resources. Such payment is made directly to the institution in which the MDA clinic is located, or to authorized vendors. Association policy requires that only MDA may place orders and make payments. No services or durable medical equipment may be ordered directly by persons served or by their families if payment by MDA is desired. Only Association staff representatives may authorize vendors to provide equipment or services for which MDA will pay.

Special Note: Since MDA payment is limited to those services specified in its policy guidelines and clinic agreements, all participants in MDA clinic and related service activities are urged to familiarize themselves with the specific provisions of the Association’s authorized program. Provisions described in this brochure may be changed at any time at the discretion of the Association.