Integrating Assistive Technology Into an Outcome-Driven Model of Service Delivery

Infants and toddlers with disabilities and special health care needs (SHCN) have complex habilitative and health care needs requiring multiple services throughout their lives. Providers of services to children underutilize assistive technology (AT) and AT services. This underutilization has a significant impact on how well and how easily the children are integrated in home, school, and community activities. The literature indicates that AT is appropriate when the device (a) is related to specific and clearly defined goals that are meaningful to the child and family; (b) takes into consideration practical constraints, such as the environment and funding resources; and (c) results in the child achieving desired outcomes. Using an outcome-driven model this article outlines a 10-step framework that can be used by service providers to guide them in determining the fit between the child's needs and AT and/or AT services. Components of the framework and critical information needed for decision-making at each step will be discussed. A family-centered, interdisciplinary team philosophy is promoted.