Introduction

Different countries in the world are committed to building public Assistive Technology providing systems that cater for the right to access appropriate assistive technology for the participation and inclusion of citizens with functional difficulties of all ages. One of the key questions countries have to answer is how to organize and structure their AT provision models. There are many different possible policies, systems and models for AT provision, but little is known about which are the most effective and efficient approaches. Within countries, very often different models exist, which leads to fragmentation and makes it hard for persons who might benefit from AT to find the right “door to knock on”.

With AT provision models we mean the processes/pathways through which potential AT users can obtain their AT solutions. This includes information about AT for end users (and their informal and professional caregivers), the availability of advice, possibilities to try things, the actual provision, related services, etcetera. Most existing models are impairment- or technology-specific and have a limited scope and reach. In this session we welcome contributions that have empirically evaluated AT provision models. The aim is to learn from these contributions what works well and what not. This should feed into local, national and international effort to develop and implement optimal AT provisions models and procedures.

The session is promoted by GAATO, the Global Alliance of Assistive Technology Organizations.

Invitation for contributions

In the Special Thematic Session “Effective AT Provision Models” we welcome contributions that present empirical evidence about the effectiveness and efficiency of different AT provision models. Also, more descriptive presentations about AT provision models can be included in the session.

Chairs

Luc de Witte, GAATO and The Hague University of Applied Sciences, l.p.dewitte@hhs.nl

Emma Smith, Postdoctoral Fellow, Assisting Living and Learning Institute, Maynooth University, Ireland, Emma.smith@mu.ie