Hi Deborah-

There are codes for providing AT services. However, there aren’t any codes that pay for actual computer access equipment (I’m guessing because computer access is not seen as a medical necessity?)

 

The software for voice input can be relatively inexpensive. The issue, though, is that it requires a fairly powerful computer to run on, with a LOT of RAM memory, and a really fast processor speed.

 

I think it’s important for people to know that there are a lot of alternatives to voice input. (It takes a really special personality to persevere, and correct all the mistakes it makes.)  I think it can help a person to do a formal (or informal) computer access evaluation, and try out some different options.  (I think people tend to have an unrealistic, Star Trek idea of what speech recognition can do.) 

 

If it does seem like voice input is a viable option- Does this person get services through the Department of Rehab? If so, they could provide  the evaluation, and potentially set them up with a system.

 

If it doesn’t seem feasible for them to get all the equipment needed for voice input, I’d be happy to talk with you off the list about different computer access options.

 

Take care,

 

Margaret Cotts