Adaptive Living

PRODUCT SEARCH: A printed report will list the various product options, manufacturers, vendors, and approximate prices of the product being researched. Requests may be made by telephone, in writing, or in person. Searches will draw from the resources of Adaptive Living's nine year old library of product files; on-line electronic databases, such as the Job Accommodation Network and Able Data; and CD ROM disks.

CONSULTATION: Verbal advice is provided in response to specific questions regarding a product's performance, technical description, suitability to a particular client, retail outlets, and/or pricing. Consultations are available at any time during the technology service process. A consultation may be appropriate in order to provide a second opinion to advice given by a product representative. Consultations are also available for on-site inspections with regard to access, for example.

EVALUATION: A full assessment of the client's rehabilitation technology needs is made within the parameters of the referral request. The evaluation will be conducted at the location where the client will be using any devices being recommended. In determining what technology is appropriate, the client will, whenever possible, have the opportunity to use equipment on a trial basis. The input of the client, other health professionals involved in the client's case, the employer or staff from the school being attended, will be solicited and taken into account when making technology recommendations. A full written report will document background information on the client; functional information on the system, environment or site that the client uses or will use; a detailed description of the equipment being recommended, including its advantages over other options; and how the equipment was received by the client during the trial period. An assessment of the learning curve and training needs in the use of the equipment will be noted. An appendices will be attached listing the equipment recommended, manufacturer's promotional literature giving equipment specifications, a vendors list, and the cost of each item. 

PURCHASES: Many products can be directly ordered through Adaptive Living which acts as a dealer for many manufacturers. Bid request forms will be accepted by Adaptive Living. For products not available through Adaptive Living, assistance is available to identify local or statewide vendors so that bids can be solicited for that product.

INSTALLATION: Two levels of installation service are available. The first includes (1) verification that all equipment purchased for a client is received, (2) assembly, (3) installation, and (4) assurance of working integrity. The second provides for an inspection of a vendor/contractor installation to assure that the equipment has been properly and safely installed. If not appropriately installed, the installation will be completed.

TRAINING: A client will be trained in the day-to-day operations of equipment received. Safety precautions and equipment care and maintenance are a significant component of instruction given. Training is especially necessary in the case of high technology equipment, such as environmental control devices, wheelchair interfaces, and/or computer hardware/software.

DIAGNOSTIC and REPAIRS: When equipment malfunctions, onsite diagnostic repair services are available. First, the problem will be diagnosed. If a repair can be made onsite, parts will be ordered and the repair will be made. If the repair is more appropriately handled by the manufacturer, a recommendation to that affect will be made.

DESIGN and FABRICATION: When no suitable product exists, an existing product can be modified or a new product created. In either case, scaled drawings with specifications as to materials and assembly methods will be provided. Upon completion of the design, price estimates are given along with a recommendation as to who could build the device.

FOLLOW-UP: After a case is closed, and some time has elapsed, a client may be followed-up to determine that the equipment is working properly and meeting the client's current needs.