Go to previous article
Go to next article
Return to 2005 Table of Contents
Presenter(s)
Jeanne Schorsch
M.S. CCC-SLP, ATP
Mesa County School District #51
Grand Junction, CO
AAC Specialist
Jeanne Schorsch
M.S. CCC-SLP, ATP
Email: jschorsch@bresnan.net
A. Barriers observed in Upgrading
1. AAC USER
• Time in learning new vocabulary, button locations, system features
• Resistance to change
• Comfort level
• Mounting changes
• Changes in the sound of their voice
2. AAC SUPPORT STAFF
• Time commitment in learning how to program new technology
• Comfort level with new technology
• Limited evaluation experience by staff
• Paperwork required for funding
B. QUESTIONS TO ASK…
1. Is the current AAC device still able to be repaired should it break?
• With older technology, a broken device can equate with having no voice, as many older devices cannot be repaired due to their parts being obsolete. Considering the typical funding process taking 2 to 6 months, aren't we ethically bound to be proactive in making sure no one is without their voice for that length of time?
• Insurance Justification "Due to the medical necessity of the client's AAC device, it is imperative it be restored as quickly as possible in the event of accidental breakage. Since their device is 5+ years old, it's replacement parts are obsolete, making it unable to be repaired. Based upon this information, a new system is required."
2. Can the users current configurations be loaded on to the new system?
• Please be sure the AAC client is aware if their current system can or cannot be transferred to the new system. If so, who will be in charge of transferring the data and ensuring it runs well? If it cannot be transferred, is the client willing to learn an entirely new system?
• Insurance Justification "As the current system is highly customized for the client, it is imperative that the client be matched with the newest version of the same feature-matched device by the same manufacturer. This will ensure their information can be transferred and reduce the amount of time required to learn how to use their new device."
3. Does the client require Synthesized Speech?
• Remember that only by using synthesized speech the client is able to:
• Formulate novel messages
• Speak with a consistent voice
• Insurance Justification "Less costly digitized speech devices have been considered, but are deemed not appropriate as the client requires the ability to speak novel messages to meet their medical communication needs."
• Insurance Justification "Aside from the need to formulate novel messages, the client requires a consistent male voice for speaking. As his AAC programmers are female, it would be inappropriate and distracting for the client to speak with a female voice. Use of digitized speech would also make the client dependent upon an one individual person, and not allow him to program his own device "
• Insurance Justification "Due to advances in technologies, new voices available are much clearer and easier to understand in situations where the older synthesized speech was difficult, such as when using a speaker phone or in noisy environments"
4. What about symbol sets and digital images?
• Is the same symbol set available on the new technology? Does the consumer need the same symbol set? What about using digital pictures to communicate?
• Insurance Justification "Upon evaluating the choices of AAC devices available, it is determined the client will benefit from utilizing the same symbol set on the newly recommended technology. This will ensure the most cost-effective treatment as this will significantly reduce the training time required to learn the new system."
• Insurance Justification "With advances in technology, the client will also benefit from the use of digital photos to have concrete representation of events, items, and instructions. For example, the client can effectively communicate to new caregivers specific instructions of the proper way to transfer them from sitting to supine by using a combination of real digital pictures and speech output. This will help reduce their chance of injury and medical expense from incorrect or unknowing staff."
5. Does the device have a variety of pre-programmed applications?
6. Will accessing vocabulary be at least equal or more efficient with the new system?
7. Do new features that will add to the consumers independence?
Justifications for Accessories
8. Are we feature-matching to the client's needs?
Summary, Review, Questions, Encouragement
Go to previous article
Go to next article
Return to 2005 Table of Contents