FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

A: Yes, I charge for my services on an hourly basis. I also charge for travel time on a reduced hourly basis.

Q: Can you work with someone in Evansville? Or Gary? How about Dayton, Ohio?

A: Yes, I see clients all over the state of Indiana. I have also traveled out-of-state to provide services.

A: No, I don't sell equipment, which means that I offer objective opinions on equipment recommendations. However, once in a while I make and sell custom assistive technology if it cannot be purchased elsewhere.

Q: What if I don't agree with your recommendations?

A: That's not a problem. My goal is to provide options to people and let them choose what they think will work best.

Q: How long do you usually work with someone?

A: Until they don't need my assistance (depending on funding limitations, of course). My goal is to help people learn to do things as independently as possible.

Q: Can you help me with things at home and at school, too?

A: Yes, many of my clients need assistive devices in more than one location. Sometimes I can recommend portable equipment; other times, two devices may be necessary.

Q: Is it OK if I want my family or caregivers to be there when you provide services?

A: Sure - invite anyone you want.

Q: Do you keep my information private?

A: Yes. I do not release any information about you to any organization or other persons besides your funding source. Also, I shred all old papers that contain any client information, including outdated reports, handwritten notes, envelopes, and Post-It notes.

Q: Can you bring assistive devices out to my house so that I can try them?

A: Yes, I do this all the time. I have often brought tables, chairs, computers, and all types of assistive devices to people's home for an evaluation.

Q: Who usually pays for your services?

A: Indiana's Vocational Rehabiliation program, the federal government's Veterans Affairs program, private businesses, schools, and individuals. I offer reduced rates to people with disabilities that are paying for my services directly.

Q: Can I get a copy of a report you write about me?

A: Sure - just ask for it any time. I can provide information in alternate formats as well.

Q: How do you work with case managers?

A: I try to make their job as easy as possible by:
maintaining a quick response time to inquiries
requesting all funding arrangements in writing ahead of time
communicating by the case manager's preferred method (phone, email, regular mail, fax, etc.)
providing concise but detailed information in a non-technical manner
dealing with intricate technical details so that they don't have to
creating clear, itemized bills that are included with reports on the services provided

Q: Do you have references?

A: Yes, see my Testimonials page.

Q: Why don’t you have any certifications listed on your resume?

A: Certification programs are an alternative to qualifications, not a replacement. The limited certification programs that are available were designed to provide entry level knowledge for those who do not have degrees or qualifications in this field. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Purdue University in Electrical Engineering Technology and worked as a full-time engineer for 10 years before becoming a Rehabilitation Engineer.

Q: What if I just have general questions about Assistive Technology?

A: You're welcome to contact me.

Q: How should I select a service provider?

A: Ask for their resume, not their title. Also, ask about their experience in the area you need assistance with. Finally, ask for references.

Q: Do you have any financial arrangements with any other entity?

A: No. I am not an employee, dealer, partner, distributor, representative, salesman, installer, etc. for any company or organization.

Q: Do you offer presentations or workshops?

A: Yes, I have provided Assistive Technology presentations to a wide variety of audiences. Please contact me for more information.

David B. Lafever, BS/EET

Rehabilitation Engineer