MISSION The mission of the Technology Access Clinic is to facilitate the communication of individuals who are not able to write due to a long-term physical disability and/or whose speech does not meet all of their communication needs. VALUES We embrace the following values as fundamental to success in achieving our mission: We value: the worth of all clients referred to Hamilton Health Sciences and respect their right to communicate; a client-centered collaborative partnership where needs are identified, goals are agreed upon and decisions and actions are taken; a team approach, which provides the staffing, clinical expertise and resources necessary to reach the best communication solutions for our clients. Within Hamilton Health Sciences, the Technology Access Clinic is an Augmentative and Alternative Communication service in the Developmental Pediatrics and Rehabilitation Portfolio, Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre, McMaster Children’s Hospital. AUGMENTATIVE and ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION (AAC) Communication is a complex process involving many related skills, and involves a message being sent and a message being received. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to ways (other than speech) that are used to send a message from one person to another. An individual requires augmentative and alternative communication if speech and/or handwriting does not meet their communication needs. AAC systems use a combination of techniques to enhance communication. Techniques may include speech, sign language, picture communication displays, written language, speech generating technology or a computer system. Individuals with physical disabilities may have difficulty handwriting or using their hands to operate communication systems. A variety of alternative access methods, special keyboards and strategies may be explored. The Technology Access Clinic Team… assesses client needs and abilities for augmentative communication determines eligibility for Assistive Devices Program (ADP) funding (individuals with a primary diagnosis of Learning Disability are not eligible for ADP funding) prescribes the most appropriate communication system and access method for clients recommends strategies for using the communication system trains facilitators who assist the client in using their communication system provides ongoing support for the client, family, school and others to promote communication in all daily living activities provides technical support in the client’s environment In addition, the Technology Access Clinic… hosts workshops and presentations for clients and caregivers offers information regarding AAC, specialized access and communication technology for community groups, school boards provides student placements
Funding for Augmentative Communication Equipment The Technology Access Clinic is an accredited Augmentative and Alternative Communication clinic with the Assistive Devices Program Communication Aids Section of the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. Through the Assistive Devices Program, children and adults may be eligible for funding assistance for the lease or purchase of a communication system. The communication system is prescribed to meet personal communication needs in the home. The client and/or family are responsible for the portion of the cost not covered by ADP. Additional financial assistance may be available from community agencies, insurance benefits or local service clubs. Children or adults who receive social assistance benefits may qualify for up to 100% of the approved ADP maximum funding for equipment. HOW TO REFER contact the Technology Access Clinic (TAC) to request a referral form or further information referrals may be accepted from the Region and surrounding areas the client must be an Ontario resident and have a valid Ontario Health Card Number the client must have a physical disability TAC sees clients of all ages. Telephone: 905-521-2100 ext. 77833 Fax:905-521-4964 Email: Location: Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre 325 Wellington Street North Hamilton, ON Mailing Address: Technology Access Clinic Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre Hamilton Health Sciences 237 Barton St. East Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2 Visit our website: www.mcmasterchildrenshospital.ca/RJCHC Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) Technology Access Clinic Serving all ages Augmentative and Alternative Communication Service