Getting the right aid can mean a huge amount for quality of life, health and everyday coping. Many people who experience challenges with sleep, bedsores or pain need specially adapted solutions such as a Tidewave mattress. In order to be able to get such a mattress covered through NAV, the way often goes via the Assistive Technology Centre. This guide will take you step by step through the process so that you get an overview of how to apply, what you need to prepare and what rights you have.
What is the Assistive Technology Centre?
The Assistive Technology Centre is part of the NAV system that is responsible for lending and adapting technical aids. They act as a resource for users, relatives and healthcare professionals, and can assist in finding the right solutions for each individual. When it comes to assistive devices such as a Tidewave mattress, it is the Assistive Technology Centre that assesses the need and possibly grants the application.
Why Tidewave?
Tidewave is specially developed for people who cannot change position on their own or who need pressure relief throughout the night. It moves slowly from side to side, which can prevent pressure ulcers. In addition, it is constantly in motion and can have a major impact on sleep quality. For many, this is not just an aid, but a prerequisite for being able to live a more comfortable and dignified life.
7 Steps to Apply for Tidewave Mattress
1. Map your needs
The first step is to assess your need for a Tidewave mattress. Do you experience pain, poor sleep, pressure ulcers or challenges related to immobility? The clearer you can describe how the challenges affect your everyday life, the easier it will be to document the need in the application.
2. Contact your healthcare provider
In order to apply for an assistive device via NAV, you must have a professional to help you. This can be an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or doctor. They will be able to assess your situation and assist with the necessary documentation.
3. Try out the mattress
In many cases, you are offered to try out the Tidewave mattress before applying. This is often done in collaboration with the Assistive Technology Centre or the municipality’s occupational therapy service. The trial period is important, because it documents how the mattress actually works for you.
4. Fill out the application
The application is submitted via NAV’s digital form or on paper. Healthcare professionals will help you fill in the necessary information. The application must state why Tidewave is specifically necessary, as well as what other measures, if any, have been tried without satisfactory results.
5. Documentation and attachments
The application must be accompanied by relevant documentation. This can be:
- Medical certificate or assessment from a specialist
- The occupational therapist’s functional assessment
- Results from any trial
- Description of how the ailments affect everyday life
The more precise and comprehensive the documentation, the greater the chance that the application will be granted.
6. Treatment at the Assistive Technology Centre
Once the application has been submitted, it is the Assistive Technology Centre that assesses it. They can get in touch for more information or to arrange further testing. The processing time varies, but it is common to have to wait a few weeks.
7. Grant and delivery
If the application is granted, the Tidewave mattress will be delivered to your home. The Assistive Technology Centre takes care of assembly, training and any adjustments. You can borrow the mattress for as long as the need exists, and the Assistive Technology Centre is also responsible for service and maintenance.
Tips for a better application process
- Be early to contact healthcare professionals.
- Make sure that all relevant documents accompany the application.
- Be clear about how Tidewave will improve your quality of life.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way – both the Assistive Technology Centre and the municipality can provide guidance.
What happens if the application is denied?
If you are rejected, you have the right to appeal. The appeal is sent to NAV, and you can get help from a healthcare professional or the patient and user ombudsman. It is important to read the rejection carefully to see which points you should elaborate on better in a possible appeal.
Alternative solutions – buy the mattress privately
Although most people want to apply via NAV, there may be situations where you want or need to buy a Tidewave mattress privately. This may be relevant if the application is rejected, or if you want faster access to the mattress. Several providers offer the option of private purchase, and it may be worth checking whether you are entitled to support schemes through insurance or the municipality.
Do you want to buy a Tidewave mattress privately? Contact us or find a dealer here.