An Occupational Therapist may decide that assistive technology is the best way forward for their disabled patient. Integrating an environmental control system is an ideal way to enable and empower the patient by giving them greater independence.
Opening and closing windows and doors, turning on and off lights, fans, heating and changing TV channels are some of the ways in which a patient can take control of their home environment by using technology.
Once the OT has established that their patient could benefit from assistive technology, they should contact the relevant NHS region, in the first instance, to request a referral form (the appropriate region is based on the address of
the patient). Locations and contact details of the different NHS Environmental Controls regions are listed in this article.
The referral will be reviewed by the NHS Environmental Controls Team and, should the patient meet the criteria, a specialist OT from the Environmental Controls service will visit the patient to assess their needs. Dependant on the needs of the patient, a further “case conference” may be arranged, where the Environmental Controls OT will be present, often alongside a representative from a specialist assistive technology company. Working together, a plan will be made regarding the most suitable equipment required, taking into account the following:
The best method for the patient to control their environment for example:
• Voice, switch, direct access or combinations • Priority functions needed
• Beneficial daily functions
• Patient tech preferences
All such decisions are made bearing in mind the comfort, training and ease of transition for the patient, allowing them time to adjust to the technologies introduced.
The NHS EC Team will maintain contact with the patient to keep them apprised of the progress of the referral.
When equipment is issued, the patient is not discharged from the service and the service remains available for follow up reviews (should needs change) along with ongoing maintenance and support of the equipment.
The provisions of the Environmental Controls services are needs based and are not subject to means testing. As an NHS service, should a need be identified then the service is provided free at the point of use.
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