Ministry of Health Equipment and Modification Services Assessor Credentialing:

Communication Assistive Technology

Update April 2011

Many assessors accredited under the old Ministry of Health Equipment and Modification Services (EMS) scheme have now transitioned to the new EMS Accreditation Framework. Therapists wishing to gain Level One or Level Two Credentialing in Communication Assistive Technology are still able to apply for accreditation under the new scheme as new assessors.  

The new credentialing framework for MOH assessors is a two tiered system:

Level One Credential

Assessors working at this level may undertake assessments with people:

1. Where their sole need is complex communication or they are emergent communicators.
2. Who may require low to mid technology communication solutions (e.g. static display devices, keyboard devices that do not require complex programming knowledge).

Level Two Credential

Assessors working at this level may undertake assessments with people:

1.      Who have complex communication needs in addition to other needs (cognitive, physical, sensory etc) which requires a team approach.

2.      May require more complex communication solutions including support.

3.      Who are in environments that require a high level of collaboration between team members. 

4.      Where successful implementation requires specialist knowledge of product and process. Examples where Level Two Credentials may apply:

·         Highly complex equipment that requires technical knowledge and support

·         School students who require joint assessments as per the protocol between the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education

·         People living in community houses or residential care

·         People with deteriorating conditions where needs are changing over time and require solutions that will continue to meet these changing needs.

In most instances Level Two assessors will be working for the MoH specialist provider, TalkLink Trust. If you are interested in becoming a Level Two assessor please contact ann.smaill@talklink.org.nz  

As part of a national training contract with the Ministry of Health, ATANZ provides training for therapists who wish to become credentialed in Level One Communication Assistive Technology.

There are two training options available to therapists wishing to gain accreditation: On-Line Modules and a day-long workshop. Therapists are required to complete one of these options as part of the Level One accreditation process.  Click here for an outline of the steps required to be a Level One Communication Assistive Technology Assessor