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AccessibleEU has highlighted a new analysis by the European Disability Forum showing that access to assistive technology remains highly uneven across the EU. National rules for assessment, funding and approval differ substantially, which can restrict choice and make it harder for a person to obtain a device or service that matches their needs.
The barriers identified include inadequate reimbursement, restrictive lists of approved products, lengthy procedures and gaps in accessible information, training and follow-up support. Funding models built around a one-off purchase may also fail to accommodate modern solutions that depend on software updates, subscriptions or continuing technical assistance.
The paper recommends greater transparency, stronger cooperation between Member States, mutual recognition of assessments and more qualified professionals. It does not propose a single EU system; instead, it seeks to reduce unnecessary barriers so people can access technology suited to their individual requirements, including when the most appropriate solution is available in another country.
Original source: AccessibleEU / European Disability Forum ↗
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