Prosthetics Request Consult
Veteran: XXX
Social Security Number: XXX-XX-XXXX
Date: 10.04.12
Provider: McKay Moore Sohlberg PhD, CCC-SLP University of Oregon HEDCO Clinic
XXX has begun receiving services for cognitive impairments related to her service-connected brain injury. Therapy goals are focused on managing the attention and memory impairments documented by neuropsychological testing completed in our clinic on 7.30.12 and at the Eugene Community Based Outpatient Clinic, a part of the Smithtown VA Medical Center, on 7.25.12 and 5.21.12. Specific therapy goals include increasing XXX’s academic readiness to pursue educational goals and increasing independence on home tasks.
As part of the evaluation process in this clinic, XXX participated in a detailed inventory process to review current cognitive compensation techniques. This process revealed that XXX was using an elaborate system of wall calendars, paper planners and journals, and sticky notes located in multiple rooms in her house to assist in minimizing forgetting experiences. XXX’s current system is unable to effectively and efficiently integrate the support needed to successfully complete simple daily living tasks (e.g., follow a recipe and prepare a meal, grocery shop, make and attend scheduled appointments). An electronic tool that provides scheduling with reminders and prompts and a way to document routines (home and academic) that could be used in a checklist format would mitigate these problems.
XXX would benefit from a tablet device that (1) allows easy inputting, (2) shows different calendar views (daily, weekly, monthly/list, calendar formats), (3) provides different alarm functions (daily, repeat modes etc.), (4) has an expanded keyboard; and (5) has an audio memo system and photographic capabilities that could assist with orientation strategies. The rationale for using a tablet versus a separate PDA or smart phone is that XXX is already familiar with the basic technology and requires a larger screen to see and access the touch-screen interface by swiping or tapping.
Successful use of an assistive device is dependent upon adequate motivation and learning. XXX demonstrates the requisite motivation to improve her functioning and initiate using an integrated tablet device as she has followed through with all homework and trial therapy activities. It is requested that the VA
purchase this tablet in order to help XXX manage her cognitive deficits. The information is supplied below:
Tablet: The New iPad (3rd generation), 64GB, Wi-Fi, $699.00
Location: The Apple Store
1-800-692-7753
We would like to expedite this request as we have been helping XXX mitigate her attention and working memory deficits and would like to transition her from her wall calendar system to an integrated tablet system to assist with home and academic responsibilities. Please do not hesitate to call me with questions.
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McKay Moore Sohlberg PhD CCC-SLP
Director of Hedco Cognitive Rehabilitation Clinic
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