Introduction

Millions of dollars are spent by states each year on assistive technology (AT) devices or durable medical equipment (DME). It is estimated that up to 30 percent of this equipment goes unused for a variety of reasons. Equipment reuse/exchange programs meet the need to provide an exchange or trade service that allows people to sell or donate unused equipment, while offering other individuals a change to obtain equipment that is generally in good condition for a lot less than the price of new equipment.

Equipment Exchange Programs are services that match individuals who need assistive technology devices with people who are selling or donating such devices. This service is often a computerized database and is accessed through the project’s website, or publicized in projects’ newsletters or other publications.

Equipment Reuse Programs differ from exchange programs in that the project maintains physical possession of the equipment and serves both as a warehouse and exchange service. Never used, gently used and re-conditioned AT equipment include computer equipment, wheelchairs, adapted toys, and more. Reuse programs offer an alternative for consumers and professionals to both reduce costs of devices and equipment and improve availability of products.

The AT Recycling Process

All recycling programs need systems for receiving, refurbishing, and distributing items.

Receiving

To encourage donations of usable AT, programs advertise in community newspapers and in yellow pages in local telephone directories. Programs have learned to be selective in accepting equipment, taking only those items that are apt to be requested and used. Many of the programs have computerized inventory tracking systems that use bar codes to identify items. When donors give large items such as motorized wheelchairs, the donor is encouraged to provide an operating manual to give to the next owner.

Refurbishing

When items arrive, initial evaluations are conducted to determine the extent of refurbishing that is needed. Minor cleaning and simple repairs are done in-house. For more intensive refurbishing, trained technicians complete the repairs and conduct a final safety check to ensure the item is ready for use. Items are steam cleaned and often shrink-wrapped before they are ready for distribution. Some recycling programs incorporate job training or rehabilitation programs into the refurbishing efforts.

Distributing

With most recycling programs, customers can try out items before they are purchased or taken home. The customer usually has access to many makes and models of equipment and devices, and therefore has a wide variety to choose from. Consumers may not be aware of the different types of equipment on the market if they work with a dealer that does not carry a selection of AT devices. Used equipment programs publicize the items that they have available to reach diverse audiences. Through presentations and the program’s and partner websites, information about the recycling programs can be found.

How Reused AT Devices and Equipment Benefit Suppliers and Consumers

Suppliers

The availability of refurbished equipment fills a void; it provides another tool for suppliers to satisfy the needs of consumers. Often, third party reimbursement systems establish caps, or limits, on payments for certain categories of equipment. Suppliers can offer reused equipment as a less expensive alternative to allow consumers to stay within their financial limits. Reused equipment, compared with new equipment, also incurs a lesser co-payment amount when the consumer pays a percentage of the total cost. Since AT often is paid from consumers’ own funds, recycled equipment allows consumers to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Suppliers also can use recycled devices for medical requests to fill temporary needs.

Consumers

Reused equipment is less expensive than new equipment which is especially important if consumers must pay for devices out of their own funds. Moreover, consumers can afford to purchase second pieces of equipment, such as a second wheelchair, for convenience. Reused, adapted recreational devices also offer more affordability than new devices. Reused equipment can provide temporary access to devices when consumers are waiting for their newly purchased items to arrive. For example, consumers who are discharged from nursing homes, and who cannot take the equipment that they are using in the facility, can borrow recycled equipment until their new equipment arrives.

Being able to use a recycled computer in the home allows consumers to shop on-line, pay bills, and write checks more easily. Computers can provide an avenue of communication via email, especially important for people with disabilities who may spend a considerable amount of time in their homes. Computers can help with employment, by providing a means to conduct a job search on-line or to telecommute or telework.