ALS Association DC/MD/VA Chapter

JOB DESCRIPTION

Assistive Technology Specialist

 

 

 

Job Summary:

 

The Assistive Technology (AT) Specialist will work with the AT Program Manager and Director of Patient Services in developing and implementing assistive technology services for the ALS community in Maryland and Northern Virginia.

 

Reports to: Director of Patient & Family Services

 

Qualifications:

1.       Efficiency in time management skills and ability to prioritize tasks

2.       Able to work independently without a lot of supervision

3.       Health Care, Assistive Technology, Information Technology, Bio-Medical Engineering, or Speech & Language Pathology experience preferred.

 

Desired Skills:

1.       Possess knowledge of the speech and assistive technology problems specific to ALS/PLS patients and knowledge of the types and variety of communication and assistive technology devices available to ALS patients.

2.       Possess knowledge of community resources in augmentative communication/assistive technology and develop relationships with those agencies and individuals

3.       Excellent oral and written communication skills

4.       Possess strong program development, implementation and time management skills.

5.       Significant computer skills to assist patients with computer access needs

 

Responsibilities:

 

1.       Attend ALS Clinic at George Washington University Hospital in Washington, DC and University Specialty Hospital in Baltimore as needed/able.

2.       Maintain inventory of communication devices and other AT equipment; label all equipment; track equipment loans to patients and clinicians; keep track of missing parts/repairs/servicing needed, etc.

3.       Work directly with ALS patients regarding placement and procurement of assistive technology devices.  This may include:

a.       Review assessments and collaboratively work with SLP and/or Patient Services Coordinators

b.       Home visits

c.       Needs assessments

d.       Provide guidance about purchase of equipment/devices (both low and high-tech)

e.       Identification of funding sources

f.         Device configuration, delivery, set-up and follow-up.

g.       Device Training

4.       Educate and inform the general public and professionals on the nature of ALS, its management with respect to communication needs, and the existence and services of The ALS Association DC/MD/VA Chapter.

5.       In conjunction with Patient & Family Services staff, help locate, recruit, train and oversee qualified volunteers to help with the assistive technology program. 

6.       Assist Chapter in outreach efforts to expand the scope of the assistive technology program.

7.       Attend Assistive Technology/Communication related clinical conferences as determined by the Director of Patient Services and Executive Director (as budgeting allows).

8.       Attend Patient & Family Services quarterly staff meetings and participate in monthly Patient & Family Services conference calls.

9.       Submit quarterly program reports to the Director of Patient & Family Services; submit monthly timesheets and expense reports in timely manor when requested.

10.   Contribute to the Chapter’s quarterly newsletter, monthly mailings, and educational symposia when requested.