How to apply for Virginia Assistive Technology System — Device Loans and Free Medical Equipment

Who it's for

The Virginia Assistive Technology System helps Virginians with disabilities, and their families, find and try devices that make daily life easier. You can borrow equipment from a loan library for 1 to 4 weeks, often with a short demo, to see what works before you buy. Items include reachers, sock aids, magnifiers, large-print cards, smart-home devices, and adapted computer tools. VATS also connects adults with limited income or gaps in insurance to free donated medical equipment, such as mobility aids, through its partner F.R.E.E. Help is open to people of all ages. Call 804-662-9990 or use the online form to ask for help.

What you'll need

• Online VATS contact or request form (name, email and ZIP code required)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Virginia Assistive Technology System — Device Loans and Free Medical Equipment. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need online VATS contact or request form (name, email and ZIP code required) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Decide what you need. Think about whether you want to try a device on loan, such as a reacher, magnifier, or smart-home device, or if you need free donated medical equipment, such as a mobility aid.
2. Choose how to ask for help. You can call 804-662-9990 or use the online VATS contact or request form.
3. Gather the details the online form requires. You must give your name, email address, and ZIP code.
4. Submit the online form, or call and share what kind of device or equipment you are looking for.
5. Ask about a short demo. Loans often come with one, so you can see how the item works before you buy.
6. If you need free medical equipment, ask how VATS connects you with its partner, F.R.E.E. Each partner group sets its own income and medical rules, so ask what applies to you.
7. Ask what is available right now. Loan items depend on what is in stock, and loans last 1 to 4 weeks.

What to expect: After you call or send the form, VATS staff will help you find and try devices that fit your needs. Processing times vary, so ask the agency for an estimate. Loans are short term, from 1 to 4 weeks, and items depend on what is available. Free medical equipment comes from partner groups that each set their own income and medical rules, so not everyone will qualify for every item. This program has no renewal, so there is nothing to renew. You can reach out again whenever you need help finding a new device.

Renewals

none

Related programs

Other help that people in the same situation often look at.

• Supportive ServicesVirginia Brain Injury Services (DARS community brain injury programs)Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), Brain Injury Services Unit — delivered through nine community-based brain injury programs
• Supportive ServicesLong-Term Care Ombudsman ProgramAdministration for Community Living (delivered locally by State and local Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs)
• Elder ServicesDisease Prevention & Wellness ProgramsVirginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) — local Area Agencies on Aging
• Home CareAdult Services In-Home Help (Homemaker, Companion & Chore Services)Local Departments of Social Services (oversight: DARS Adult Protective Services Division)

See all programs in Virginia →