A survey on the need and funding for assistive technology devices and services in Hong Kong

A survey was conducted to solicit information from individuals with disabilities and health-care professionals on the need for, funding for, and satisfaction with assistive technology (AT) devices and services in Hong Kong. The study revealed that more than half of the owners of AT devices purchased those devices on their own. Health-care professionals reported that a large percentage of users needed financial support to acquire the necessary AT devices. Although users indicated that their primary source of AT information was rehabilitation professionals, not every user was aware that financial support from the government and charitable organizations was available. Overall, only 40% of end users and 60% of health-care professionals gave a satisfactory rating to AT services–including equipment installation, repair, and maintenance, as well as other after-sales supports. There was a demand for streamlining funding-application procedures, improving after-sales supports, conducting better promotion of AT devices, and establishing an emergency service center. Copyright © 2003, Sage Publications. All rights reserved.