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Tips
for Justifying Access Features
There are two broad categories of access methods that can impact
a letter of justification: (Dowden
& Cook, in press): 1) Direct selection and 2) Indirect selection,
which includes scanning and coded access methods of all types. For more
information and examples of these features, see "Access Features"
in the "Understanding
AAC Features" section of this website.
Direct and Indirect Selection Methods
For letters of
justification in Washington State, it is our experience that motor
access must be addressed in the medical justification for any communication
device. You must do the following:
1) Include detailed
information from OT/PT or a physician about current motor abilities.(This
is not necessary if motor impairments are minimal and you are requesting
a device accessed via the simplest and cheapest direct selection: "pointing
with physical contact & force.")
2) Provide evidence
that the individual can use the access method you are recommending.
A description of trials with this method is usually adequate. Some people
send a short video tape, although this can also cause delays in processing
your request.
3) If you are not
recommending the simplest direct selection ("pointing with physical
contact & force") you must provide proof that the individual
cannot use these cheaper access methods to meet his/her medical, health
or safety communication needs. Specifically:
a) If you recommend
any indirect selection method, you must rule out cheaper direct
selection methods;
b) If you recommend
directed scanning or coded access, you must rule out cheaper
indirect selection via single or dual switch scanning.
c) If you recommend
direct selection via eye-gaze or light pointer, you must rule
out simpler direct selection methods as well as cheaper indirect
selection methods.
Back to Tips for Funding
in WA State
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III. Funding