The cost of many technologies may seem prohibitive at times. The trick is to learn what potential funding sources exist relative to the client and the system at hand, and to use creativity in coming up with new ideas if the desired technologies can't be obtained. Remember that the best solution has the lowest cost and is the least obtrusive tool for the job. Sometimes we need to go for high-priced options to get a desirable outcome. If we have a sound assessment that provides good evidence for the recommendation, we have a good start.

Some funding options will be reviewed during the CDC session. For now, check out these options:

• Assistive Devices Program: If you are working in Ontario, the ADP program is a major source of funding for AT, and OTs can qualify to serve as equipment authorizers (two short courses required). There are similar programs in B.C., Alberta and Quebec. The other provinces have limited coverage available through other programs. At the following official website you will find information about the Ontario ADP program and what it funds. You will note that the ADP program covers only 75% of costs in most cases. ADP doesn't cover equipment for people with a primary diagnosis of learning disability.  As you review the ADP website note the funding criteria for writing aids.  If you are from another province/territory or hope to work in another province once you practice this is a good time to review the funding available in that province/territory.   http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/program/adp/adp_mn.html
• School System Funding: Equipment for kids in Ontario schools identified as special needs can often be purchased through a Special Education Amount (SEA). Equipment can be purchased to provide accommodations needed to access the curriculum, and may include equipment related to personal care and safety. The local school board is responsible for the first $800 of equipment costs, and the costs of assessment are not covered under this fund. More information is available at: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/policyfunding/funding.html.
• Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities: This Ontario fund will cover the consumer's portion of an assistive device that is prescribed through ADP. ADP will fund up to 75% and ACSD pays 25%. Other funding sources that do the same thing are Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Assistance Program (ODSP).
• OSAP: Post-secondary grants are available for students who are OSAP eligible to purchase prescribed assistive technologies, with required documentation.
• Insurance: Private insurance plans such as Blue Cross/Blue Shield or Great West Life may cover certain devices, depending on the negotiated plan. Check the plan of the employed person to see if they have coverage. If you are working with a client who has sustained a workplace injury or was injured in an auto accident, you will complete appropriate paperwork to recommend the equipment. For example, the WSIB in Ontario will fund equipment considered necessary and reasonable to return an injured worker to the job beyond what an employer would be expected to cover: http://www.wsib.on.ca/wsib/wopm.nsf/Public/190307
• Service Clubs: Charitable organizations like the Lion's Club, Civitans or Rotary club often can assist with funding. Some organizations like March of Dimes and War Amps are specifically directed towards supporting disability needs.

In addition, some equipment purchases may be claimed as medical deductions on federal income tax.

Then we get to the creative part:

• Alternate sources: did another client use a similar device that is now in disuse? Could it be modified?
• Home construction: could some aspects be developed by you or by a family member? Things like mounting systems, ramps, keyboard adaptations, switches and more can often be fabricated locally.
• Local fundraisers: Does the client have a support group that could assist with fundraising? Did they belong to any clubs or church groups? Are they from a small, tight-knit community?

What's your role?

In some cases you will have ready access to the necessary forms and will submit them on behalf of the client. In other cases, you will write a comprehensive report that recommends certain equipment. It is not necessarily your job to beat the bushes to obtain funding from all the alternate sources listed above; however, you can help the family problem solve and come up with ideas, provide the client with detailed information about the recommended devices, and often your signature if they require professional authorization.