What does OTAP mean in TECHNOLOGY

The Oregon Technology Access Program (OTAP) is a state-funded program that provides assistive technology and training to people with disabilities, their families, and professionals. OTAP helps people of all ages and levels of ability strive for independence by providing accessible solutions to everyday challenges.

OTAP provides funding for the assessment, acquisition, training in the use of, and ongoing support of durable medical equipment and assistive technology for individuals with disabilities living in Oregon age birth through 21 years old.

Services are provided through a network of vendors across the State using local resources within the community. A list of these service providers can be found online on the website for the Oregon Department of Human Services.

Assistance through OTAP includes assessment, acquisition, training in use of and ongoing support for durable medical equipment and assistive technology devices such as wheelchairs, communication devices, computer access products, environmental control systems and other custom items.

You must complete an application prior to receiving services from OTAP. Applications can be found on the Oregon Department of Human Services website or contact your local development disabilities office for more information about applying.

Funding is provided by the Oregon Department of Human Resources and may include Medicaid funds, private insurance funds or a combination thereof. For more information about how specific services are funded please contact your local development disability office or an OTAP service provider.

Individuals are responsible for any co-pays required by their insurance provider if utilizing private insurance coverage as a means to fund their device(s). Furthermore, some individuals may also be required to make payments towards rental fees depending on their individual situations and need for specific device(s). All fees applicable would be discussed prior to receiving any type of service/device from an approved vendor/provider.

The timeline will vary depending on each individual situation; however you should expect most requests to be processed within 2-4 weeks from when you apply. If it takes longer than 4 weeks please check in with your local Developmental Disabilities Office who handled your initial application process so they can investigate further why there is a delay in you getting what you applied for.

Yes! Vendors who provide devices typically also offer installation assistance as part of their overall fee structure (which may increase total costs - especially if additional modifications are needed). Additionally, many vendors have trained staff members who have experience assisting consumers with installation directly at their home or place of work with no additional cost associated (included in the original purchase price).

Depending on what durable medical equipment/assistive technology you’re looking into purchasing approval requirements can differ; however in most cases it is necessary that your physician provide written documentation confirming that this type of item/service will positively benefit your particular condition/disability before any resources are allocated towards purchase/installation/training etc. This document will usually need to accompany all applications when applying through insurers & even when applying through certain government programs such as OSIP & MEDSIS etc..