As muscle function deteriorates, people with ALS (PALS) need medical devices and equipment for comfort and to maintain as much independence as possible. In response to these needs, the Foundation funds several programs to assist with the loan or purchase of communication devices and durable medical equipment.

Augmentative Communication Equipment Loan
ALS can cause weakness in the muscles involved in speaking and PALS may lose the ability to speak clearly or to speak at all. The Foundation maintains an inventory of several different types of augmentative communication devices that it lends to Lois Insolia ALS Center patients, and/or PALS seen by a member of our Home Care Team, for a low monthly fee.

Durable Medical Equipment Loan
The Foundation maintains a limited inventory of durable medical equipment for loan to people with ALS. To qualify for this program, a person must be a Lois Insolia ALS Center patient or seen by a member of our Home Care Team. The equipment, all of which has been donated, is intended to assist those who might not have insurance to help them pay for the items, for those who are awaiting insurance approval for the items or to assist families with equipment needs that are not covered by insurance.

The Ralph Russo Patient and Family Services Grants Program
As some durable medical equipment, including those that assist with bathing and toileting, are not covered by Medicare and coverage for other items is usually 80 percent, the "out-of-pocket" expense is often more than families can afford. The Ralph Russo Patient and Family Services Grants Program helps alleviate these expenses by providing stipends of up to $2,000 for the purchase of durable medical and augmentative communication equipment. Grants are availabe to all Lois Insolia ALS Center patients, or PALS seen by a member of our Home Care Team, to help families in need with the cost of wheelchairs, commodes, bath benches, communication devices or other items that assist with activities of daily living. This program helps families secure items that will help make care of the ALS patient a little easier.

The Stuart Rosen ALS Transportation Program
As ALS progresses, driving to the city and parking can be challenging, so one way to make the trip more agreeable is to provide comfortable, reliable service. ALS patients and their families can arrange through the Foundation for free transportation to and from their clinic appointments at the Lois Insolia ALS Center.

For more information on these programs, or if you wish to donate equipment, please contact Claire Owen, Director of Patient Services at   cowen@lesturnerals.org   or (847) 679-3311.