FAQ
@ DLL
Choosing (and Paying for) Assistive
Technology
by the Disability Linkage Line
Staff
Here are some of the most commonly
asked questions callers ask the Disability Linkage Line (DLL) about
assistive technology:
How Do I Know What Assistive
Technology is Best for Me
If you need assistive technology (AT) to do your job, you can get
an assessment through the state agency that serves people with your
type of disability. For example; people who are Deaf will work with
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, people who are blind will work with
State Services for the Blind, and people with all other types of disabilities
will work with Rehabilitation Services. Technology specialists can
help you assess what AT you need to be able to perform your job duties.
The DLL can help you connect with the appropriate agency.
If you want AT that isn’t
job-related, there are many resources in print and on the Internet
that can help you sort out what AT will work best for you and how
to fund the AT you need. Beside reading and researching your options,
you should talk with people who have used the AT you want to buy,
so that you learn how it has worked for them.
Where Can I find or Sell Used
Equipment
The STAR Program (A System of Technology to Achieve Results) has a
new online classified ad program, called the STARTE program (STAR Technology
Exchange), which promotes the reuse of AT. STARTE is a user-driven
database that is designed to connect sellers and donors of previously
used AT with people that need AT. STARTE can be used by all Minnesotans
with disabilities, and some entries will be accepted from residents
of neighboring states. The database is not for distributors. To list
a device on STARTE, it should be usable or operable safely and independently
by people with disabilities. STAR recommends that used software not
be sold or bought on STARTE.
How Do I Pay for the AT I
Need
While some AT is low cost
and easy to obtain, some AT may be quite costly—but that doesn’t mean it is out of reach! STAR also
has an online funding directory that can help you find resources to
pay for the AT you need. The online directory (also available in print
or alternative format by calling the numbers listed below) is a comprehensive “how
to” resource that can make navigating the maze of AT less intimidating,
and getting the AT you need less frustrating.
The 2006 funding directory gives you:
• Ideas for strategizing on how to get the AT you need
• Resources for funding the AT you need
• Forms to help you keep track of what you need to do
• A worksheet to fill out when you are ready to apply for funding
You can access STARTE online
at www.mnstarte.org or by contacting the Minnesota STAR Program directly
by dialing 651-201-2640 or Toll Free 1-888-234-1267, MN Relay at 711
or 1-800-627-2527 (TTY), Speech-to-Speech, Telephone Revoice Service
at 1-877-627-3848. To request a copy of the 2006 Directory of Funding
Resources in print or alternate format, call 651-201-2640, 888-234-1267
(Toll-Free), 800-627-2527 (TTY) or send an e-mail to star.program@state.mn.us ![]()
Each month, the DLL will
focus on an area of interest to people with disabilities in Access
Press. DLL does not endorse any particular provider. They assume
no responsibility for transactions between the readers of this article
and listed organizations. If you have questions you’d
like to see answered in this column, contact the DLL at 1-866-333-2466
or e-mail us at Dhs. DisabilityLinkage@state.mn.us
The Disability Linkage
Line (DLL) provides free, statewide, disability-related information
and assistance. DLL’s information specialists
make it easier for people to explore options, choose services,
and successfully connect to services. Anyone can call Disability
Linkage Line for help at 1-866-333-2466.
