Purpose
Communication is vital to a rich life and proper care. We are committed, therefore, to helping patients find ways of communicating when speech is no longer possible. The Elliot W. Dann Augmentative Communication Program assists patients by loaning communication equipment while awaiting insurance approval, or if such equipment is not covered by insurance.
Policy
Candidates for the program must:
- Have a diagnosis of ALS,
- Reside in New York City (5 boros), Westchester County, Rockland County, Long Island or Northern New Jersey
- Be anarthric (unable to speak), or dysarthric such that speech is impaired to the point where functional communication is not possible
- Have applied, or be in the application process for coverage of equipment from their insurance or;
- Have no insurance coverage for augmentative communication devices.
Procedure
If you are interested in receiving an evaluation for augmentative communication or in requesting loan of a communication device, you should call Antoinette Verdone, Assistive Technology Specialist, at 800-672-8857 or email verdone@als-ny.org.
If you wish to donate equipment
The success of this program is dependent upon the availability of equipment. As such, the Chapter encourages and appreciates the donation of appropriate items. Your donation is tax deductible. Equipment will be accepted for donation if it is owned by the donor family, is in demand and is determined by the Chapter to be in usable condition. Delivery and pick-up of equipment will be made by the Chapter. Those wishing to donate equipment should call Antoinette Verdone, Assistive Technology Specialist, at
800-672-8857 or email verdone@als-ny.org
