Inconsistent laws and funding schemes across the EU are still preventing people with disabilities from accessing the devices and technologies they need. That is the conclusion of our paper “Assistive Technology in the EU”, released today, which also shows that people can lose access to technology they have used for years when they move within the EU.
The paper analysed the different national approaches to providing assistive technology. It reveals that they create unnecessary barriers:
- Restricted product choice, due to pre-approved lists which do not take into account the wider range of solutions in the EU market;
- Insufficient funding, leaving some users unable to afford the needed solutions;
- Lack of information and expert advice for both authorities and users;
- Inadequate provision of maintenance and support during the use of the assistive technology.
This patchwork of provisions also creates barriers to suppliers, especially of newer technologies. For example, approaches based on ‘one-off’ purchases, used by many countries, do not account for newer solutions. This includes subscription-based technology, costs with connected devices and updates, or technical support.
The paper highlights that the gap expands when we analyse access within the EU single market. Different rules, approved product lists, and funding levels often scare suppliers away from smaller markets, leading them to prioritise bigger countries. As a result, even products that may meet all requirements are not be provided because of supplier concerns and confusion. The report highlights such a case in Lithuania, where users must go to Latvia to buy a specific bowel irrigation system.
The paper recommends measures to ensure people can get the assistive technology they need where they need it, while giving suppliers clear rules that apply across the EU.
The measures proposed prioritise:
- Making national approaches transparent and easier to understand.
- Adapting rules to the needs of the users of assistive technology, including better access to funding, support and ways to appeal decisions
- Harmonise information requirements for assistive solutions across Member States and ensure ‘mutual recognition’ where equivalent assessments exist.
- Ensuring funding systems support a wider variety of assistive technology.
- Guaranteeing that more specialised products also reach users in smaller markets.
- Increasing the number of skilled professionals who can support users.
- Improve cross-border access to AT solutions and the free movement of persons with disabilities using them,
The conclusion is clear: strengthening European cooperation will reduce unnecessary barriers and fragmentation while allowing EU countries to maintain or develop more generous support systems.