The Rehab Technology Center provides custom seating, augmentative communication, computer access, and assistive technology services. Evaluations are focused on the patient, the family, and the caregivers. Therapists and technicians consider all of the patient’s medical and functional needs, and use trial situations along with demonstration equipment to ensure that recommendations will meet the unique needs of each patient.
Augmentative Communication
Augmentative communication is a system, other than writing, that allows an individual to make thoughts and needs known. These systems range from low technology, such as custom-made picture boards, to high technology, such as computer-based systems. Speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists help the patient, family, school staff, and others determine how to best meet each individual’s communication needs.
Services Include
Evaluation and documentation of need
Equipment trials
Insurance prior authorization and funding source assistance
Equipment setup, training, and customization
Who Uses These Services
If patients have a limited ability to communicate or interact, no matter their age or diagnosis, they may be good candidates for Rehab Technology Center services. Typical conditions served include:
Brain injury
Stroke
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Anoxia
Cerebral palsy
Down's syndrome
Computer Access
Computer evaluations identify specific technology solutions or modifications that will enhance lost or limited physical, cognitive, or visual skills. A computer or computer-related device — such as palm devices, digital recorders, and screen readers — can offer significant functional gains for many patients. Knowledgeable engineering and therapy staff deliver and set up completed equipment and train the patient in its use.
Services Include
Evaluation and documentation of need
Trials and simulation with equipment
Insurance prior authorization and funding
Equipment purchase coordination
Equipment customization
Equipment setup and training
Who Uses These ServicesChildren of adults with physical disabilities who use, or could benefit from, computers or technology devices for completing personal, educational, or job-related tasks
Persons who need to improve personal efficiency or enhance writing skills (brain injury, dyslexia, learning disability)
Persons who need technology to assist with memory and planning skills
Persons with acquired vision limitations who need to use a computer
Persons using a wheelchair who need an accessible computer workstation
Electronic Aids to Daily Living (EADL)
EADLs are devices that allow patients with disabilities enhanced personal independence in their home, school, and work environments. EADLs include: emergency call devices, door opening systems, sip/puff or switch operated telephones, remote-control lights or fan, and remote-controlled audio systems. These devices may operate by infrared signals, radio frequency, Wi-Fi, or voice control.
Services Include
Evaluation and documentation of need
Equipment trials (at Mary Free Bed or in the home, if necessary)
Insurance prior authorization and funding source assistance
Equipment purchase coordination
Equipment customization
Equipment setup and in-home training
Who Uses These Services
Persons who have mobility impairments or difficulty operating standard home devices or doors (spinal cord injury, severe arthritis, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy)
Persons with limited hand function or fine motor skills
Persons concerned with safety when left alone and who require a reliable means to call for assistance
Vocational Services
Vocational Services are aimed at helping an individual successfully return to employment following a significant injury or illness. The Rehab Technology Center's vocational counselor may perform evaluations, provide training, or determine work modifications necessary to make a successful return to work.
Services Include
Vocational assessment and counseling
Job development, placement, and coaching
Work adjustment training
Job analysis and work site assessment
Assistive technology equipment evaluations, set-up, and training
Who Uses These Services
Persons who are injured or experiencing rehabilitation and wish to return to their previous employment
Persons seeking alternative methods of performing a previous job
Persons seeking alternatives to their previous job due to extensive changes in physical or cognitive abilities
Independent Living Services
Independent Living Services helps patients learn to live independently by addressing housing needs, hiring and paying attendants, and identifying equipment needed for personal care or transportation. The Rehab Technology Center's vocational counselor works with the patient and family to determine what skills and equipment will be necessary for a safe transition to independence.
Services Include
Evaluation
Patient training
Equipment trials
Home visits, as necessary
Also Available at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital
The Rehab Technology Center staff may recommend other specialists and programs available at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital. OrthoSEAT, also part of the Rehab Technology Center, provides custom seating for wheelchair users as well as other custom assistive equipment.
Contact the Rehab Technology Center at Mary Free Bed
For more information or to make a referral, please email the Rehab Technology Center at Mary Free Bed or call:
616.242.0375 - or - 800.211.4813 | Fax prescriptions to 616.356.1868