AAC WEST process for working with people who have a privately funded AAC device
If an individual has an AAC device funded through private, medicolegal, or charity routes, they may still be referred to AAC WEST by a health, education or social care SLT if they meet NHS specialist services criteria. (See How AAC WEST work with independent professionals, suppliers and charities)
Please note the following important points:
- AAC WEST will carry out an impartial assessment of the individual’s AAC needs before making decisions about next steps. As part of this assessment we will review all privately purchased elements and make a decision about whether this best meets the person’s needs. This would include reviewing the device, software, access method, accessories, and mounting solutions.
- Decisions are made at the conclusion of the assessment process. This may be a single assessment appointment, but will usually (though not always) include a trial/review period.
- AAC WEST’s assessment may include consideration of other assistive technology needs, but the primary focus will be on the individual’s communication needs.
- Our recommendations may differ from previous advice.
- We do not reimburse any costs associated with purchasing or hiring devices privately.
Potential outcomes following AAC WEST assessment
Where the AAC user/family accept the above points, we would proceed with an AAC WEST assessment. The following outlines the typical potential outcomes of an AAC WEST assessment for people who have a privately funded AAC device.
A. Current AAC setup is appropriate and NHS criteria is met.
If the AAC WEST assessment indicates that the current AAC setup (device, access method, vocabulary, mounting) is appropriate and NHS Specialised Services criteria has been met, AAC WEST will:
- Offer to take on responsibility for the device.
See section below: What does it mean for AAC WEST to take on responsibility for a device? - Recommend and provide mounting solutions.
- See section below: What if the AAC user/family does not wish for AAC WEST to take on responsibility?
B. Current AAC device is appropriate, but setup needs adjusting.
If the AAC WEST assessment indicates the device is suitable, but changes are needed to optimise the set up, AAC WEST may recommend a trial period to explore some of the following: different access method, vocabulary package, or software settings.
If the trial is successful and NHS criteria is met:
- AAC WEST will offer to take on responsibility for the device.
- Provide mounting solutions.
- See section below: What if the AAC user/family does not wish for AAC WEST to take on responsibility?
C. A different AAC solution is recommended and NHS criteria is met.
If the AAC WEST assessment indicates a different AAC solution is needed, AAC WEST may recommend a trial of an alternative AAC solution. This trial will follow our standard pathway.
See section below: What if the AAC user/family does not wish to follow AAC WEST's recommendation.
D. NHS criteria is not met
AAC WEST assessment indicates the individual does not meet NHS Specialised Services criteria, and therefore their AAC needs should be met locally.
- AAC WEST will provide recommendations in a written report.
- Responsibility for the AAC device and support remains with the family and/or local team.
- Mounting solutions will not be provided.
Important notes
- AAC WEST will only be responsible for one AAC device per person. If a device has previously been provided by AAC WEST, it must be returned before we take on a new privately funded device.
What does it mean for AAC WEST to take on responsibility for a device?
If AAC WEST agrees to take on responsibility for a privately funded device, this includes:
- Maintenance, repairs, and replacement when required.
- Labelling the device and charger with a inventory code (STC number) for linking to our patient records.
- Annual safety checks of the device and charger.
Benefits include:
- Coverage of repair costs.
- Device replacement where appropriate.
- Regular assurance that the device is safe and fit for purpose.
- The device being accepted in all settings. Some local authorities have policies to not permit privately funded devices in their settings.
These benefits will continue as long as the patient remains on the NHS pathway.
What if the AAC user/family does not wish for AAC WEST to take on responsibility of the device?
If AAC WEST does not take on responsibility:
- Recommendations will be provided in a written report.
- Responsibility for the device remains with the family and/or local team.
What if the AAC user/family does not wish to follow AAC WEST’s recommendations?
If AAC WEST’s recommendations are not accepted:
- Recommendations will be provided in a written report.
- Responsibility for the device and support remains with the local or independent SLT.
- Mounting solutions will not be provided.
- If circumstances change and the AAC user/family wish to take on AAC WEST’s recommendations in the future, they can be referred for another assessment. Please include information about the current situation and an update about what has changed.