Equipment

Disclaimer: This information sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.

What sorts of equipment?

• Wheelchairs
• Shower chairs
• Commodes - toilet chairs
• Standing frames
• Tilt tables
• Specialised beds
• Splints for hands or feet
• Walking frames

Where Can I Get Special Equipment for My Child?

If your child is currently a patient with the Brain Injury Service, the therapy, medical and nursing staff will assist you in making decisions about what equipment will be needed/useful for your child when they are discharged from hospital. As your child grows they may need different pieces of equipment. The outpatient doctors and therapists can assist in obtaining the most appropriate equipment such as splints, mobility/bathing/daily living aids (eg shower chairs, commodes, wheel chairs etc).

The Therapy Departments (Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Speech Pathology Departments have some equipment that you can borrow from their "Loan Pool"). A deposit is required and the loans are for short periods of time.

The Brain Injury Service also has a limited range of equipment that can be borrowed.

If your child will be needing this equipment long term or if it is appropriate for them to have their own equipment for hygiene reasons (eg a commode) then therapy staff will help you identify and acquire this equipment.

Who Will Buy This Equipment for My Child?

Specialist equipment range significantly in price. There are a number of services which can be accessed to get assistance with purchasing equipment. Some of these services are means tested and may require that you have medical and therapy evidence that your child needs this equipment.

PADP Provision of Aids for Disabled Persons This is a government scheme which assists people with disabilities obtain special equipment.

If your child has a personal injury claim, equipment may also be funded by the CTP insurer. Please discuss this with your child's therapist, case manager or solicitor.

How Can I Find Out What Specialist Equipment Exists?

• Ask your child's occupational, speech or physiotherapist
• Independent Living Centre http://www.ilcnsw.asn.au

Rehabilitation Department The Children's Hospital at Westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Rd & Hainsworth St, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, 2145 Tel: (02) 9845 2132 - Fax: (02) 9845 0685 http://www.chw.edu.au/rehabilitation/