info on speech technology

[Patricia Dowden]

I second Frances's thoughts about funding.  But, I want to add that she
(and Mia Emerson) probably should have been more specific when they said
you should go to a Speech-Language Pathologist for advice or a letter of
justification.  Make sure you go to one who is experienced specifically in
AUGMENTATIVE COMMUNICATION.   This specialty is NOT taught to all SLPs and
you want to go to someone who is truly knowledgeable about the field so
that you get the most from him or her.  

In addition to our program at Children's Hospital (206/526-2104), I
suggest you check out the Special Education Technology Center in
Ellensburg or Tacoma.  There are other individuals as well in different
districts, so ask around.  But make sure you get an Aug Comm Specialist. 

Pat

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Patricia Dowden, Ph.D., CCC-Sp   <dowden at u.washington.edu>          
Coordinator, Children's Adaptive Technology Service
Children's Hospital & Medical Center              
Mailstop CH-89
4800 Sand Point Way, NE
Seattle, WA  98105
(206) 526-2104

On Sun, 1 Dec 1996, F. Pennell wrote:

> Dana -- With respect to the funding aspect of your question, you may be
> able to obtain funding through your private health insurer (or Medicaid if
> you are on Medicaid) if you can establish that the device is medically
> necessary.  Many augmentative communication systems are medically
> necessary since they provide the only means for meaningful communication
> regarding medical symptoms.  To find out whether there might be covereage
> under your policy, you will need to review the summary plan description.
> To establish medical necessity, you will need an opinion from an "expert"
> - e.g., a speech language pathologist.  You may also be able to obtain
> funding through your school district if the device is needed to ensure a
> free and appropriate public education. If the device is funded through the
> school district, it will remain district property.  If it is funded
> through medical insurance, it will be your property.  
> 	For tips on funding, please call our office at 685-4181 and ask
> for the Wata publications known as "Funding Tips,""Funding Sources," and
> "Writing Effective Letters of Justification."  Good luck and please feel
> free to call us if you have additional questions once you have received
> these materials. Francie Pennell
> 
> *****************************************
> Frances E. Pennell
> Policy & Funding Specialist
> Washington Assistive Technology Alliance
> Box 357920 
> University of Washington
> Seattle, Washington  98195-7920
> (206)  685-4181 V
> (206)  616-1395 TTY
> (206)  543-4779 FAX
> 
> 
> On Fri, 29 Nov 1996, Dana P. Reed wrote:
> 
> > We have a 10 year old son (Kyle) with Down Syndrome and no speech. We are 
> > interested in infomation on portable computer systems (laptop or pen 
> > computers) with speech capability and software options. We are hoping to 
> > find something that is as portable as possible, as this will be something 
> > he will carry with him to school and use at home. A touchscreen would be 
> > nice, but not critical. Lastly, information on funding assistance would 
> > be very valuable.. Any help you can offer is appreciated.
> > 
> > Dana and Debbie Reed
> > 25121 74th PL SE
> > Monroe, WA 98272
> > 360-794-8872
> > dreed at seatimes.com
> > 
> 
>