Since graduating I have worked for two Assistive Technology services of
contrasting remit, size and client group.
This involves carrying out assessments of patients for provision of EAT and considering the holistic rehabilitation needs of a diverse and complex case load:
Taking a leading role in the development of technology within the service:
Supervised by the directorate lead for R&D the role requires an element of R&D:
Production of bespoke computer interface equipment, mainly using microprocessors, in conjunction with a design and engineering team. This enabled me to obtain a unique perspective on the product design process and gave me hands on experience of the manufacturing process. Assessment
Assessment of children with disabilities for custom-made EAT equipment, this involved leading assessments and involving the clients, parents and a wide range of professionals. Service Creation, Management & Administration
Creation of the Interface Centre service involved introducing organisational changes including: charging for the service, developing distribution channels through partnerships with appropriate organisations, costing the service and expanding its scope. I was also central in the creation of the South London AAC care pathway group. Computer/Network/Web Page Administration
Production and maintenance of the organisation’s web page, IT and networking.
ACT (2004 - current)
ACT is a regional specialist EAT service providing Environmental Control, Alternative and Augmentative Communication and Computer Access equipment throughout the West Midlands. The department consists of Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists and Clinical Scientists supported by Medical Technical Officers and Administrators. As a state registered Clinical Scientist within this team my role has a number of aspects: Clinical RoleThis involves carrying out assessments of patients for provision of EAT and considering the holistic rehabilitation needs of a diverse and complex case load:
- Working with patients with a range of disabilities including those with palliative care and progressive neurological conditions
- Working as an autonomous clinician and as part of a tertiary team
- In-depth conversations and demonstrations during assessments, including explaining highly complex information to clients who may have difficulties in understanding
- Deciding on appropriate EAT equipment, including non-standard equipment
- Understanding and negotiating the disparate views of local multi-disciplinary teams
- Assessing the physical and cognitive skills of the client
- Effectively conveying assessment information to the client and other professionals
- Considering complex factors, including risk and safety factors
- Working with in-house technicians and company engineers to ensure that systems are effectively implemented.
Taking a leading role in the development of technology within the service:
- Organising and partaking in regional training events
- Maintaining knowledge of leading edge solutions within the team
- Identifying and presenting indicators for service change at appropriate meetings
- Contributing to regional strategies and development projects
- Providing technical input to improve organisational processes e.g. Website redevelopment
- Maintaining a high standing within the EAT field and contributing to its development
- Developing links with other equivalent centres to share best practice
- Feeding back to manufacturers to maintain development in the field
- Identifying alternative (non-contract) solutions for EC needs of patients
Supervised by the directorate lead for R&D the role requires an element of R&D:
- Leading on research and development projects
- Actively promoting the R&D aspects of EAT and its application to patients
- Presenting at national and international conferences
- Contributing to the evidence base of the department
MERU (1999 - 2004)
MERU is a not-for-profit organisation making custom made equipment for individual children with disabilities. I worked within the Interface Centre service that I jointly set up in 1999. This specialised service creates bespoke Electronic Assistive Technology (EAT) controls - as a specialised service it is unique in the UK. As the only Clinical Scientist within this team my roles were diverse and included: Electronic EngineerProduction of bespoke computer interface equipment, mainly using microprocessors, in conjunction with a design and engineering team. This enabled me to obtain a unique perspective on the product design process and gave me hands on experience of the manufacturing process. Assessment
Assessment of children with disabilities for custom-made EAT equipment, this involved leading assessments and involving the clients, parents and a wide range of professionals. Service Creation, Management & Administration
Creation of the Interface Centre service involved introducing organisational changes including: charging for the service, developing distribution channels through partnerships with appropriate organisations, costing the service and expanding its scope. I was also central in the creation of the South London AAC care pathway group. Computer/Network/Web Page Administration
Production and maintenance of the organisation’s web page, IT and networking.