What is Augmentative Communication Services?
Many people with physical and cognitive disabilities can be helped to discover that they can have a voice, to share their thoughts through writing, picture communication displays, speech generating devices and computers (with adaptations) for speaking and writing.
Assesses children and youth when speaking or writing is physically difficult or limited, recommends and/or prescribes equipment and trains and supports children and youth and caregivers for equipment use
Many people need support and/or technology to help them communicate. Augmentative Communication Services (ACS) recommends solutions that help children, youth and adults communicate, when speaking or writing with a pen or pencil is physically difficult or impossible.
Who Are We:
Our service offers assessment and recommendations by a team that includes:
- A Speech-Language Pathologist
- An Occupational Therapist
- A Communicative Disorders Assistant
- A Program Assistant
- An Information Technician
We are registered with the Assistive Devices Program as an Expanded Level Clinic that allows prescriptions and funding for equipment for those who qualify.
Who we Serve:
- Children and youth living or receiving care within Sarnia Lambton
What we Provide:
- Individual assessment and recommendations
- Parent/Caregiver training
- Consultation
What to Expect:
Once the referral information is received, you will be put on the wait list and called for an assessment when a space becomes available. Recommendations will be made during and after the initial appointment. A written report will follow. If a communication system has been recommended, an Augmentative Communication Services team member will assist you with the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) application (where applicable) and the ordering of equipment.
Once the system is in place, the Augmentative Communication Services team will provide short-term training and orientation in all settings required to maximize the use of the system. Beyond the initial training period, additional consultation is available upon request only. Some follow-up will be completed by the team to determine that the equipment continues to meet the need of the client
The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) a division of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, funds part of the costs of equipment prescribed. Staff outline costs and options and may refer children and youth for support in obtaining funds to cover the remaining costs from other local or provincial sources.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
We are working hard to complete this section. Please come back and check later.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
We are working hard to complete this section. Please come back and check later.
How To Refer:
PHONE A PATHWAYS
TO MAKE A REFERRAL TO OUR AUGMENTATIVE COMMUNICATION SERVICE, PLEASE COMPLETE THIS REFERRAL FORM AND EITHER MAIL OR FAX TO US.
