Funding For Assistive Technology

Once a need has been identified, available information explored, abilities and limitations identified, and a recommendation to purchase AT equipment has been made, the remaining step is to obtain funding for the AT. Unfortunately, due to the high cost, most AT consumers and families cannot afford to purchase AT devices and services out-of-pocket. Confounding the problem, when seeking third-party funding, they are often confronted with a seemingly impenetrable maze of eligibility requirements, restrictions, rules and regulations, denials and refusals (ATA, 2000). Even with that grim prognosis, it is possible to obtain funding for AT devices. For a better chance at obtaining third-party funding the AT consumer should be able to answer "yes" to each of the following questions before approaching a potential funding source.

• Does the desired AT completely fit the needs of the potential user?
• Is the selected device necessary for the potential user to fulfill a normal life role?
• Have complete AT assessments resulting in the identification of the individual's abilities, limitations, and resulting AT needs been performed? 
• Has the potential user obtained the desired AT equipment for a sufficient hands-on demonstration/trial period?
• Is the AT affordable without financial aid or is exploration of financial resources needed?

When obtaining AT for either an individual or group/agency setting, once the previous questions have been answered, the following specific information must typically be provided to the potential funding agency for the agency to considered the request. Potential funding sources request this information as screening information to determine if there is a basic AT and financial need.

At the Individual Level:

• Primary Disability
• Time of Onset
• Cause of Disability
• Academic or Employment History
• Family Gross Income
• Monthly Expenses (rent or mortgage payments, utilities, outstanding loans and bills, medical expenses, etc.)
• Health Insurance Information,
• Names, Ages, and Relationship of Dependents [if applicable]

At the Group/Agency Level:

• Purpose of obtaining the AT
• Population to be served
• Equipment Needed
• Equipment Already Owned
• Facility Modifications needed to accommodate the AT
• Facilities and Environmental Conditions
• Tech Support available
• Training available for individuals using the equipment
• Program Evaluation (to determine the success of the program)

After providing this necessary information, the next step in obtaining funding is to provide a justification for the AT need.

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