Assistive Technlogy for People with Disabilities

What is Assistive Technology?
How Do I Pay for Assistive Technology?
What If I've Been Denied Assistive Technology By A Government Program?
Links

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology (AT) helps people with disabilities be independent. AT is things like:

● wheelchairs or scooters that help you get around;
● talking computers or communication boards that make it easier for you to use computers;
● wheelchair lifts or hand controls for your car or van;
● computer equipment;
● hearing aids, personal FM units and other things to help you hear;
● lifts and stair glides that help you get around your home;
● workplace modifications and equipment to help you at work;
● equipment and modifications for students in school.

These are examples of AT. There are things not listed here which could also be AT.

How Do I Pay for Assistive Technology?

Your medical insurance may pay for assistive technology (AT). This can be Medicaid, Medicare, Veteran's Benefits, or private insurance. Vermont's Division of Voc Rehab also pays for AT. Public schools pay for AT for students who receive special education services.

Some programs give grants to pay for AT. One grant program is run by the Vermont Center for Independent Living (http://www.vcil.org/). There is often a waiting list for this money.

The State of Vermont also has an office to help people get AT they need. The Vermont Assistive Technology Project website is located at http://www.dad.state.vt.us/atp/.

What If I've Been Denied Assistive Technology by a Government Program?

You can appeal a denial of assistive technology (AT). Click here to learn about appealing decisions by the State of Vermont, like Medicaid or Voc Rehab.

Have you been denied AT by Medicaid, Voc Rehab, Medicare, or private insurance? You can call Vermont Legal Aid at 800-889-2047 for help.

Links

● The Vermont Assistive Technology Project
● The Vermont Center for Independent Living
● The Vermont Parent Information Center Fact Sheet on Assistive Technology