Published online June 2, 2008
PEDIATRICS Vol. 121 No. 6 June 2008, pp. 1271-1280 (doi:10.1542/peds.2008-0695)
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CLINICAL REPORT

Prescribing Assistive-Technology Systems: Focus on Children With Impaired Communication

Larry W. Desch, MD, Deborah Gaebler-Spira, MD and the Council on Children With Disabilities

This clinical report defines common terms of use and provides information on current practice, research, and limitations of assistive technology that can be used in systems for communication. The assessment process to determine the best devices for use with a particular child (ie, the best fit of a device) is also reviewed. The primary care pediatrician, as part of the medical home, plays an important role in the interdisciplinary effort to provide appropriate assistive technology and may be asked to make a referral for assessment or prescribe a particular device. This report provides resources to assist pediatricians in this role and reviews the interdisciplinary team functional evaluation using standardized assessments; the multiple funding opportunities available for obtaining devices and ways in which pediatricians can assist families with obtaining them; the training necessary to use these systems once the devices are procured; the follow-up evaluation to ensure that the systems are meeting their goals; and the leadership skills needed to advocate for this technology. The American Academy of Pediatrics acknowledges the need for key resources to be identified in the community and recognizes that these resources are a shared medical, educational, therapeutic, and family responsibility. Although this report primarily deals with assistive technology specific for communication impairments, many of the details in this report also can aid in the acquisition and use of other types of assistive technology.

Key Words: assistive technology • communication • children with disabilities • special health care needs • pediatrician • augmentative and alternative communication • communication impairments

Abbreviations: VOCA—voice-output communication aid • SGD—speech-generating device • AAC—augmentative/alternative communication • PECS—Picture Exchange Communication System • ICF—International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health • AAP—American Academy of Pediatrics • IDEA—Individuals With Disabilities Education Act • EPSDT—Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment


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Rx for success * Tips on recommending assistive technology for children with impaired communication
AAP News, June 1, 2008; 29(6): 20 - 20.
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