If you are supporting an individual who needs AAC, whether you are a parent or a professional, you are going to need to become an advocate. Sadly, it is rare that circumstances rise up to strongly support you. You often need to help others understand your child: everything from their potential to their personality.
Your Legal Rights
The path to getting an AAC device for your child is sometimes more difficult than you might imagine. It is often hard to find the right funding source. And since devices are expensive, agencies and insurance companies often require excessive proof of the likelihood of success.
At first glance, that seems fair. Yet, in reality, it is tragic.
Keeping someone from quickly getting an AAC device means you are keeping them from communicating, socializing, learning, and having the opportunity to reach their potential. For example, it can take months to get a child an AAC device to use in school. Imagine telling a typical child it will take months to find a math teacher, a pencil, or paper. Even when AAC is not fully effective, it allows individuals to begin the quest to reach their potential. And maximizing potential must be the goal for any individual. It benefits the individual. It benefits their community.
Are you being treated fairly?
It is not our place to evaluate if your need for AAC is being evaluated fairly. However, we can tell you that there is often legal recourse when things don't move smoothly.
Do all you can to advocate strongly. If you need assistance e-mail our company at funding@blink-twice.com and we will do what we can to help.
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