Frequently Asked Questions

Possible questions from parents/family calling about sponsorships.

How can my child qualify for a Scottish Rite sponsorship?

  • The family must complete the financial application that will be reviewed by the Scottish Rite committee to determine if there is a qualifying financial need
  • The child needs to have a speech and language therapist say that he/she needs therapy
  • We prioritize children between the ages of 3 and 6, but could consider other special situations

I have insurance, but they don't pay for speech and language therapy - can you help?

  • Yes, we want to help
  • You will need to complete the financial form

Will I be responsible for any payment for therapy?

  • Depending on your need, you could be responsible for partial payment.

My insurance covers speech and language therapy, but my deductible is too much for us to pay. Can you help?

  • We could possibly help you pay your deductible
  • Insurance EOBs (explanations of payments) would need to be provided by you or your therapist so we know what your insurance is/isn't paying and when your deductible has been satisfied.

What does Scottish Rite offer for payment?

  • Up to $200 per evaluation and $80 per therapy session.
  • Therapists who you will be referred to, have agreed to accept these terms.

If my child does qualify, what do I do?

  • You need to work with a therapist who has accepted the Scottish Rite's contract
  • If you are working with a therapist that hasn't signed on with Scottish Rite, and he/she is interested in a contract, that can be accomplished. Ask them to call us if they are interested in becoming a provider for us.

How long can my child receive your financial aid?

  • Contracts are in 6-month increments and can be renewed at the request of the SLP that is caring for the child

Who receives help from Billings Scottish Rite Children's Speech and Language Disorders Clinic (Rite Care Billings)?

Pre-school children who are clinically diagnosed with treatable speech and language disorders and require financial assistance for treatment.

How much does it cost?

Financial aid for the cost of professional therapy for speech and language disorders is provided on a sliding scale based on the ability of the family to contribute to the cost.

How do families get help for their pre-school children?

There are two steps for applying for assistance from the Billings Scottish Rite Speech and Language disorders Clinic. (1) A clinical determination by a licensed speech pathologist and, (2) a financial determination of the support available. An application form is available on this web site.

How do parents know if their child needs therapy for a speech and language disorder?

Parents cannot be sure that their child needs or can benefit from speech and language therapy without testing and evaluation by a licensed speech pathologist. There are some indications that may become apparent at very young ages. They include slow speech development, difficulty in pronouncing and understanding words. Speech and language disorders may be commonly associated with other disorders such as autism. Pediatricians often are the first to identify possible speech and language disorders and will recommend that parents seek professional speech and language therapy for their children.

At what age should a child have speech and language therapy?

As soon as possible after the problem is identified. Early intervention is critical to a good clinical result.

What is required for a child to receive speech and language therapy?

Typically children will need at least two therapeutic session per week. The number will depend upon the needs of the child and may change during the course of the treatment. Parents/Guardians must bring the child to the Clinic for therapy and are expected to keep all appointments.

How long will the Scottish Rite Children's Speech and Language Clinic provide assistance?

The Billings Scottish Rite Children's speech and language clinic is established to provide speech therapy to pre-school children. School districts typically have speech and language therapy available for their students.

What is Scottish Rite and what is its connection with speech and language disorder treatment?

Scottish Rite is a Masonic fraternal organization. It exists throughout the United States and worldwide. Providing speech and language therapy to preschool children who need and may not otherwise have access to treatment is a national charity of the U.S. Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction. Nationally this charity is known as "Rite Care." Each local Scottish Rite organization independently operates its own speech and language charity with the support of local donors. Click on.. Brochures.. at this web site for more information on the organization, history and operation of this charity.