Assistive Technology (AT) can be used to help a person use the computer. And, using the computer is a means of connecting with the world, and opens doors for greater community inclusion – what MIH is all about.
There are lots of different AT options available in the world of computer software and hardware.
In order to determine what type of AT is most appropriate for computer access, you could start by reaching out to the Maryland Technology Assistance Program to request a free consultation. MDTAP provides free consultations to Marylanders with disabilities and has an array of knowledge and technologies available to share. This is a consultative, informal process whereby you meet with one of MDTAP’s skilled AT specialists and they provide information, resources, informal recommendations, and access to devices available for loan during a trial period. You can even schedule a tour of their library of AT devices.
If you need a more formal assessment, you can get an AT Evaluation through a provider. An evaluation is a more clinical approach, where the clinician chooses and tries out a few items with the person, and then the clinician decides which item will work best based on a series of documented assessments of the person with the disability. They’ll consider functional limitations, environment, tasks to be completed and more. AT Evaluations are typically documented in a specific way and those formal evaluations can be used to leverage or access funding (such as Medicaid funding for an AAC device) to certain devices. DDA requires that any request for AT over $2,500 must be supported by recommendations in a formal “AT Needs” assessment.
Reach out to the Maryland Technology Assistance Program to request a free AT consultation.
Try contacting the Center for Independent Living near you to see if they have an AT library you can check out.
If you need a more formal assessment, AT Discount Sales & Services maintains a list of AT Specialists in Maryland. Find one near you and ask them about an assessment. These may not be covered by insurance.
You can also check out DDA’s Provider Search to find service providers in your county for OHCDS – Assistive Technology & Services.
Need funds to cover the assessment? Contact your local Center for Independent Living to see what resources they may have available.
Read about additional AT Funding Options in Maryland here.
Talk to your CCS about requesting any needed AT devices and services through DDA.
Read about additional AT Funding Options in Maryland here.
Reach out to AT Discount Sales & Services to see if you can get a discounted quote.
Check out The Assistive Technology Loan Program which helps Maryland residents with disabilities and their families qualify for low-interest loans to buy equipment that will help them live, work and learn more independently.
See if you can find what you need through the Maryland Technology Assistance AT Reuse program.
Don’t forget to make a plan for setup and training on your new AT for you and your team.
If you are currently receiving DDA Waiver funding, you can ask DDA for funding for training on your new Assistive Technology as part of your service request through the Person Centered Planning process.
If you or the person you are seeking AT for is involved with DORS, try asking them for an AT assessment before going to DDA.