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The Augmentative Communication Team was formed at Whitaker Rehabilitation Center in 1997. It is led by a speech therapist, and includes and occupational therapist, physical therapist, psychologist and a representative from Assistive Technology. Team members are involved in teh evaluation based upon needs identified in information provided by teh client prior to evaluation. The team evaluates the need for devices and techniques to communicate more effectively.

The first step is to mail the patient and family or responsible party a data collection form that collects medical history and information on why the person may need an augmentative communication device. Recent physician and therapy treatment notes are also collected.

After receiving all this information, the team reviews it to determine whether this person can benefit from an augmentative communication team evaluation. They also determine which team members need to be involved. If the person needs an evaluation, he/she is scheduled for the evaluation. People may not be a candidate for this service if:

After the evaluation, a preliminary report with recommendations is given to the family, but a formal, more detailed report is later written to help support the need for equipment purchase. If further training in use of the system is needed, a referral to the Martinat Outpatient Rehabilitation Center is made.