Assistive Technology Service
Any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device, including evaluation, customisation, training, and follow-up.
Full Definition
Assistive technology services are defined alongside assistive technology devices in legislation such as the US Assistive Technology Act of 1998, and the distinction between a device and a service is clinically and legally significant. Services encompass needs assessments, trials, customisation, maintenance, repair, and the training of users, family members, and care providers. Editors reviewing funding documents must ensure that device-related costs and service-related costs are itemised separately, as they may attract different billing codes or approval pathways. The phrase should not be confused with 'assistive technology programme,' which is an organisational entity rather than a billable service category.
Usage
Usage note: In US legislative and funding contexts, 'assistive technology service' has a specific statutory definition and should not be used loosely. Distinguish clearly from the device itself.
In Context
- "The individualised education plan specified assistive technology services including device evaluation, customisation, and quarterly follow-up training for the student." — Individualised Education Plan (IEP)
- "Editors should verify that invoices and reports distinguish 'assistive technology service' costs from 'assistive technology device' costs, as these require separate billing line items." — Assistive technology funding invoice