Reflection 10 AT/AAC
Posted on March 30, 2008
We live in a great time for assistive technology. There is technology available to help with virtually any task. From the smallest thing of holding a spoon to high-tech augmentative communication. While many barriers still exist in our society and communities for people with disabilities, the technology exists to eliminate barriers. Whether or not we utilize the technology is up to us.
Funding is a huge issue in education and an even bigger question when it comes to assistive technology. It seems that insurance will pay when deemed necessary, insurance companies don't seem to be in the business of making things easy. There's also a problem that I know of with medical equipment suppliers. I have a student who needs a new wheelchair. How long will he and his family be forced to wait? Its the same story every time he needs new braces, splints, etc. I know these things need to be customized, but does it really need to take months?
If we can utilize the resources and navigate the funding and access process, the list of things our students can do with AT is endless.
Comments
I couldn't agree with you more. Our students can do great things with tecnology. I have found the same frustrations with insurance and medicaid. One of my students has been waiting for his new, approved motorized wheelchair for 6 months. I wish the lending places were faster and easier to access and use. Sara Airoldi
Posted by: Sara Airoldi at March 31, 2008 2:00 PM
It sometimes boggle the mind how what the medicaid system will pay for. I feel that if AT or anything else that will help students access thier education, is an important expense.
Rebecca
Posted by: Rebecca at April 2, 2008 12:13 PM