When congress provided a clear definition of assistive technology it opened the door to funding options. The individual must go through a referral and Assessment process for assistive technology. The RAAT has four steps including: referral for assistive technology assessment (step 1), conducting an assistive technology assessment (step 2), the individual education program team has to compile ideas (step 3), and implementation of the assistive technology device. The process includes interviews, observations, and device trials. Once an individual has been evaluated and determined in need of assistive technology, they’re many funding options. Not all assistive technology is expensive; however, some is and funding is needed in order to purchase or have access to the technology and services. Although cost should not be a factor when considering assistive technology, in reality it is.
Many individuals with disabilities and their families don’t realize the funding options available to assist in the renting, leasing, or purchase of assistive technology. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act required schools to provide AT devices and services to students. The services had to be included in the student’s IEP. Medicaid can with if it is medically needed. The individual must be aged, disabled, blind, or members of families with dependent children. and their income must fall below state standard, or to any child under the age of twenty-one years olds. Medicare provides funding to adults over the age of 65. Sometimes private insurance companies provide funding, but it depends on the terms of the policy. If services are needed because of a work related injury, Worker’s Compensation will provide.
Veteran’s Administration is one of the largest purchasers of assistive technology. Funding is given to veterans and their dependents in some cases. Children’s Medical Services are provided by each state. The program is under the authority of the State Health Commissioner by state and federal funding. This service is provided to children whose parents can not provide the needed AT. Basic Federal-State Vocational loans are also available.
Service clubs and organizations help with funding. Organizations include the following: Lions Club, Shriners, Kiwanis, Knights of Columbus, Sertoma, Elks, various sororities and fraternities, numerous churches, and many more. They can not always pay for the entire expense, but they will make a contribution to help. The Disabled Children’s Relief Fund helps children with inadequate health insurance. Banks, credit unions, and loan programs will loan money to individuals to purchase the needed equipment, but these require adequate collateral. Also available are foundation grants, awards, and scholarships.
Due to the Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 many funding options have been made available for assistive technology. It was the first law passed by Congress with its purpose to expand the availability of assistive technology services. Due to this law and others funding has been made available from many agencies, clubs, organizations, banks, and others. As people realize how much assistive technology is needed by thousands of people more funding options will be made available in the future.
