Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The technical aid is a specially adapted device or equipment that helps a person move around, communicate, take care of themselves, or provide other essential functions when it is not possible due to health reasons without support. This can be, for example, a wheelchair, walker, pressure relief mattress, breathing aid, or alternative communication device — anything that improves a person's ability to operate independently and safely.

No, you will not be left without a wheelchair. If the technical aid is sent for repair, the Vaivari Technical Aids Center (VTPC) provides a replacement aid if it is available and necessary. It is issued for the duration of the repair so that you can continue to engage in daily activities without interruption.

Yes, the user must keep track of the technical aid's usage term themselves. When the term is approaching its end, a new application must be submitted to VTPC to continue receiving the necessary support. VTPC does not send automatic reminders about the expiration date, so it is important to monitor it yourself.

A person or their representative initially informs VTPC by phone or in writing about the refusal of the existing appointment for the aid. Only after this refusal can VTPC accept new documents.

If you have any questions, you can contact a VTPC customer service specialist by phone at 66 955 665 or write to the email skabeklis@nrc.lv.

The document is encrypted to ensure the security and protection of your personal data. The email text includes instructions on how to open it.

To open the document, a device with the Word program is required. We recommend using a computer.
Double-click on the attached Word document — a password entry window will open. The password is written in the message you will receive.

In some cases, it is possible if the Word app is installed on the phone, however, for safer and easier opening, we recommend using a computer.

If you are unable to open the document, please contact us by phone: 67552350 - we will assist you!

An opinion is a mandatory document created in the e-health system and serves as a basis for the provision of assistive devices. To receive an opinion, you must visit a healthcare professional (HP) - a certified treating physician or a certified functional specialist (physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, or technical orthopedist who has obtained a level 2 professional higher medical education). To receive an official opinion on the need for assistive devices, the opinion must specify the type or function of the assistive device; 
The HP creates the opinion in the e-health system. You make the decision about which specialist to consult based on the availability of specialists and your needs - it is important to explain to the specialist the need for assistive devices.

You must submit:
an application for the allocation of the assistive device;
a copy of the document confirming representation rights (if necessary);
additional documents for receiving a specific assistive device (depending on the type and urgency). Documents can be submitted in person, by mail, or electronically with a secure signature to VTPC@nrc.lv.

The application can be filled out on the website, in the client portal  and sent electronically, or printed from the website and filled out by hand. The application must include personal data, contact information, the type and purpose of the requested assistive device. If submitted by a representative, their details must also be provided, and a copy of the representation document must be attached.

The opinion must indicate: preparation date, personal data, diagnosis and code, description of functional disorders and recommendations, recommended assistive device, and urgency. The opinion is prepared by a certified doctor or functional specialist. Validity period – 6 months.

In addition to the application and opinion, a statement issued by a pulmonologist or cardiologist (for oxygen therapy) or a test result sheet with the AHI index (for CPAP/APAP therapy) must be submitted.

If a person has a VDEĀK opinion on the need for special care, in addition to the standard application and opinion, the original of the Braden scale must be submitted. This applies to functional beds, anti-decubitus mattresses, and bedside tables.

The opinion can be prepared and stored electronically in the e-health system. Preparation must be carried out by a certified doctor or functional specialist, in accordance with regulations on the management of medical documents.

The application procedure is the same as for all other assistive devices: no medical professional's prepared opinion is required in the e-health system, your application for receiving the assistive device, and additionally, a certificate from the Latvian Paralympic Committee must be submitted, confirming that the person regularly engages in sports.

If the application for the receipt of the technical aid device is submitted by the legal representative of the child or adult, the following must be submitted: 
* an application for the allocation of the technical aid device, which in addition to the personal data also includes the representative's personal data; 
* a copy of the document certifying the rights of representation, if it is not possible to verify these rights in the Population and Migration Affairs Office's Register of Individuals;
* other documents specified in regulatory enactments, if they are necessary for obtaining a specific type of technical aid device.

To assess the need for these technical aids, the Braden scale for pressure ulcer risk assessment must initially be completed. The person must have a VDEĀVK opinion on the need for special care. If the results of the Braden scale indicate a high risk of pressure ulcers, an opinion may be prepared for the receipt of a technical aid. Functional beds and/or bedside tables can be received by individuals with significant functional impairments if the Braden scale score does not exceed 9 points, while an anti-decubitus mattress can be received if the score does not exceed 18.

To receive a mobile lift or a customized car seat, a person must have an opinion granted by VDEĀVK regarding special care. The opinion must describe the person's ability to change body position, transfer, and maintain a seated position. The mobile lift is intended for individuals who cannot independently change their body position and move. In the case of a customized car seat, the opinion must indicate the person's head and torso control, as well as the justification for the necessity of this assistive device. The customized car seat is received by the person with a co-payment.

When applying for the receipt of an APAP or CPAP therapy device, the certificate must specify the device parameters and additionally submit a test result sheet with the apnea-hypopnea (AHI) index. A device funded by the state budget is due to individuals whose AHI index is not less than 15.

The certificate for receiving home oxygen therapy (oxygen concentrator) is prepared by a pulmonologist or cardiologist.

The referral for VVIS is prepared by the palliative care mobile team or hospice care provider no later than the next working day after determining the pulse oximetry readings.

The certificate must describe the person's functional impairments, the performance of daily activities, the intended purpose of using the assistive device, and the potential risks associated with the use of the specific assistive device.

The Barthel index is an assessment that indicates a person's ability to perform daily self-care activities; it is necessary to evaluate the allocation of assistive devices.

The Bartela index total point count must be between 16 and 20

It must specify the level of amputation, side, and purpose. Example: “Right leg transtibial prosthesis for walking.”

In some cases, additional documents must be submitted, such as a certificate from the workplace or educational institution, or documents regarding the purchase under the co-payment mechanism.

You need to prepare two main documents: a doctor's or specialist's opinion and your completed application.

The opinion in the E-health system is prepared by a healthcare professional: your family doctor, treating physician, or functional specialist (e.g., occupational therapist or physiotherapist).

You can download the form on the website, prepare it together with a specialist, or write it in free form, indicating your data and the desired assistive device.

The application in your name can be signed by an authorized person, but then a copy of the document confirming the rights of representation must be attached.

In addition to the doctor's opinion and the application, the original Braden scale form filled out by the healthcare professional must be submitted.

To receive a sports wheelchair or prosthesis, you must submit a confirmation from the Latvian Paralympic Committee regarding regular sports activities.

When making a referral, it is essential to specify the level of amputation (e.g., transtibial or transfemoral) and the side of amputation. It is also recommended to include the functional goal, such as "for walking".

Prostheses are used for various levels of amputations, most often caused by cardiovascular diseases (diabetes, atherosclerosis), trauma, oncological diseases, or congenital defects.

Upon receiving the technical aid, the person makes a one-time payment. This payment is a symbolic fee that partially covers the costs associated with the service.
Upon receiving the technical aid,  you must pay a one-time payment for each technical aid at the VTPC or at the cash register or account of the respective service provider:
for the technical aid service for a child – 1.42 euros;
for the technical aid service for a person over 18 years old – 7.11 euros.

• A person is exempt from the one-time payment, presenting the relevant certificate:
• whose household has been designated as a low-income household;
• who is in a long-term social care and social rehabilitation institution;
• whose residence is registered at a stationary medical institution;
• who is serving a sentence in a correctional facility.

For each received technical aid, the client makes a one-time payment that partially covers the costs associated with the service. Payment can be made with a bank payment card or in cash.

The one-time payment is €1.42 for children and €7.11 for persons over 18 years old. The payment is made at the VTPC or at the cash register or account of the service provider.

Yes, upon presenting the relevant certificate, exempt persons are: 
• those with the status of a low-income household 
• residents of long-term social care or social rehabilitation institutions 
• patients of stationary medical institutions 
• persons serving a sentence in a correctional facility

The payment for a home visit consists of three parts: 
• A fixed fee for the specialist's visit – €8.67 
• Travel expenses – €0.46 per kilometer from the nearest service provision location 
• A one-time payment for the technical aid (see the section “One-time payment”)

All services of the Vaivaru Technical Aids Center can be paid for both by bank card and in cash. This is also possible for services during home visits and outings. 

For adults 7.11 EUR, for children 1.42 EUR.

For each prosthesis, the patient must make a contribution of Eur 7.11 for adults or Eur 1.42 for children. 
Upon presenting the relevant certificate, the following persons are exempt from the one-time contribution:
•        whose households have been designated as low-income households;
•        who are in long-term social care or rehabilitation institutions;
•        whose residence is registered in a stationary medical institution;
•        who are serving a sentence in a correctional facility.
 

Initially in all cases where the following technical aids are required:

• Prosthetics for lower extremities,
• Electric-powered wheelchairs,
• Electric scooters,
• Alternative communication aids.
• If the user applies for an aid that is not necessarily related to FNL, but:
• Medical documentation is incomplete
• It is unclear how the aid will be used
• It is a complex or non-standard case.
   

To ensure that the assessment is effective and accurate, it is important to prepare in advance. This will help specialists better understand your needs and evaluate the most suitable technical aid.
Preparation recommendations:
●    Bring any existing aids you are already using,
●    Review your medical documents, especially the opinion of the healthcare professional,
●    Think about everyday situations where difficulties arise (for example, mobility, self-care),
●    Keep an open mind for conversation, as the assessment also includes functional testing and consultation

If you wish to receive an active wheelchair, you must additionally fill out the “Appendix for receiving an active wheelchair”. This questionnaire is designed for ordering an active wheelchair specifically for you, to determine the most suitable individual parameters (for example, seat width, back height, type of wheels and supports). Completing the questionnaire is necessary to ensure that the selected technical aid is optimally tailored to the user's needs and daily use.

Assessment of a person's functioning is an in-depth evaluation in which specialists assess a person's functional abilities, limitations, and health status to determine the most appropriate technical aid for improving daily functioning.

The assessment is conducted to clarify or confirm the suitability of the technical aid for the client, to make an informed decision regarding its allocation, and to address unclear or disputed situations.

No, not always. The assessment of functioning is mandatory when applying for lower limb prostheses, powered wheelchairs, electric scooters, and alternative or augmentative communication devices.

Based on documents and specialist recommendations, the assessment can be determined when applying for upper limb prostheses, orthoses, electric traction bicycles, seating systems, orthopedic shoes, complex or combined technical aid solutions, as well as in dispute cases.

The functional assessment takes place at the Vaivari Technical Aids Center Functional Assessment Laboratory in Riga, Ventspils Street 53.

You will be informed by phone about the need to attend the functional assessment by a VTPC representative, agreeing on a specific visit date and time.

The assessment is conducted by an independent Functional Assessment Commission, which includes a physician in rehabilitation medicine, a physiotherapist, an occupational therapist, a technical orthopedist, a speech therapist, and a clinical psychologist.

The commission meets regularly, at least once a month. Decisions are made by at least three commission members. If necessary, the client is issued a report with recommendations. The commission's decision can be appealed to the NRC “Vaivari” board.

It is recommended to bring already used technical aids, prepare medical documents, reflect on everyday situations where difficulties arise, and be ready for conversation and functional testing.

Yes. Functional assessment helps ensure that the person receives a technical aid that is appropriate to their individual needs, functionally and medically justified.

The duration of the in-depth functional assessment depends on the type of technical aid and rarely exceeds one hour. The exact duration of the in-depth functional assessment (IFA) can be clarified with the customer service specialist, as it depends on the specific aid.

Yes, such an option exists, but only one accompanying person is preferred to be present during the IFA. Other companions can wait in the waiting room.

Yes, it is necessary to present an identity document (passport or ID card, for children – a birth certificate). Medical documents that will help assess the functional status are also preferred. If you have been sent self-assessment questionnaires, please fill them out and bring them along.

No, the functionality assessment is a free service

If you are unable to attend the assessment at the specified time, please inform the customer service specialists of the Functionality Assessment Laboratory (FNL) by phone as soon as possible, tel. 66955663

Remote assessment is only possible in cases where a visit to the FNL may endanger the client's life or health. Each case is handled individually – it is necessary to contact FNL specialists to discuss options.

Yes, physical tests are conducted during the assessment. The specific type of test depends on the type of technical aid for which the assessment is being carried out.

Most often, the decision will be communicated verbally immediately after the assessment is completed. All clients will receive a written notification of the decision within a month after the in-depth functionality assessment.

Yes, you have the right to contest the decision made by the commission if you are not satisfied with it or believe that it is not objective.

The functioning assessment process may affect the order of the queue depending on the assessment results and identified needs.

FNL provides an individual approach to each client. The functioning assessment is tailored to the client's age and level of functioning, so the assessment process may differ for children and adults.

PFN is required in cases where the compliance of technical aids with a person's functional abilities and daily needs is assessed, especially in cases of assigning more complex aids.

PFN is carried out for upper and lower limb prostheses, orthoses and orthopedic shoes, mobility aids (electric scooters, wheelchairs), seating systems and adapted children's car seats, as well as technical aids for alternative communication (AKaid).

Hand function disorders, balance and mobility abilities, mental function disorders, as well as the person's ability to follow specialist instructions and safely use assistive devices are evaluated.

It must be ensured that the client can demonstrate functioning in conditions close to daily life during the PFN, including using regular shoes or orthoses if they are already in use.

A test drive with an electric wheelchair or scooter is mandatory during the PFN to assess the person's ability to safely use assistive devices.

The person must bring available medical information and completed self-assessment questionnaires for receiving an electric scooter or electric wheelchair.

The ability to maintain a seated position, spinal and joint deformities, as well as the ability to hold the torso and head are evaluated; in the case of car seats – safety risks when using a standard child car seat.

If the deformations are mild or moderately expressed, the leg length difference is up to 3 cm and standard shoes do not fit, but individual manufacturing is not required.

If there are pronounced foot or ankle deformations, shortening of the lower extremities above 3 cm, ankle instability, contractures, lymphostasis or partial foot amputations.

Measurements show the extent of the deformation, foot volume, heel deviation, and leg length difference. If the need for correction exceeds the possibilities of industrially manufactured shoes, individually manufactured shoes should be chosen.

Individual functioning is classified from K0 (the prosthesis would not improve quality of life) to K4 (high load, characteristic of athletes or children). These levels correspond to the technical activity levels of prosthetic components.

The initial prosthesis (made for a year) serves as a learning tool for gait acquisition while the stump size changes. The permanent prosthesis is made when the stump circumference has stabilized, and a cosmetic cover can be added to it.

It is necessary to avoid the pathological gait acquisition. Gait training is conducted by a physiotherapist, while the training for the use of hand prostheses is led by an occupational therapist.

Depending on age: 8–12 months in preschool age, 12–18 months in primary school, and 18–24 months in adolescents. A new prosthesis can be requested every 6 months if anthropometric indicators have changed.

Prosthetics should be started as soon as possible, preferably within the first 6 months after amputation, to successfully acquire functions and reduce the risk of spinal deformities.

Usually, the first visit to the technical orthopedist can be received within a few weeks, in more complex cases — longer.

There are different groups of aids that can be received by an authorized person/legal representative. However, when receiving all types of wheelchairs, orthoses, prostheses, alternative communication technical aids, and all types of footwear, the person must appear IN PERSON at the center or service provider. More information can be obtained by calling the VTPC departments.

If your issued assistive device's usage term is ending, you can:
1. extend the usage term of the existing contract - by submitting a written application,
2. submit new documents (application and opinion for receiving a new technical assistive device) and register again in line,
3. return the technical assistive device to the VTPC if it is no longer needed.

 No, a driver's license is not required to operate an electric wheelchair. These assistive devices are intended for the mobility of persons with functional impairments, and their use is not equivalent to operating a vehicle in road traffic. However, your skills in operating electric assistive devices will be assessed during the commission at the VTPC Functional Assessment Laboratory.

No, electric-powered wheelchairs do not need to be registered with the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD), as they are considered technical assistive devices with limited speed, not vehicles. They are intended for personal mobility needs, not for road traffic as motorized vehicles.

Yes, it is possible to receive a technical assistive device at home using the home visit service of the Vaivaru Technical Assistive Devices Center. This is a paid service, and the costs are:
8.67 EUR per visit 
+ 0.46 EUR for each kilometer from the VTPC department to the client's residence.
To receive this service, please contact the nearest VTPC department to arrange a visit time and date.

You need to consult a doctor or functional specialist who will determine what technical assistive device is needed and will create an Opinion for receiving a technical assistive device in e-health. You must write and submit an application to the VTPC for receiving the technical assistive device.

When it is your turn to receive the technical aid, the Vaivari Technical Aid Center (VTPC) will inform you in writing. The message will be sent to your chosen communication channel – for example, email, address, or other specified contact information. Thus, you will be informed in a timely manner about the opportunity to receive the aid.

Yes, a technical aid may be received by another person if the recipient has objective circumstances that prevent them from doing so themselves. In this case, the aid can be received by an authorized person, presenting a valid power of attorney. The power of attorney can be drawn up in free form in writing, and it does not necessarily have to be notarized unless otherwise specified in the document.
We remind you - There are various groups of aids that can be received by an authorized person/legal representative. However, when receiving all types of wheelchairs, orthoses, prostheses, alternative communication technical aids, and all types of footwear, the person must appear IN PERSON at the center or service provider. More information can be obtained by calling the VTPC departments.

Yes, documents for receiving the technical aid can be submitted by another person, but the documents must be signed with the client's or their legal representative's signature.

While the documents are being reviewed and waiting for the turn to receive the technical aid, it is possible to rent aid from VTPC, from similar service providers, or in specialized stores if necessary 

The aid can be received at VTPC branches, during home visits, paid home visits, or from the service provider. Within the project, self-care aid can be received closer to the place of residence or by courier.

No, this receipt cannot be submitted to the State Revenue Service (VID). The one-time payment for receiving the technical aid is defined as an administrative fee for the service (Cabinet Regulation No. 878), not as a medical or healthcare expense. Therefore, it does not fall under the category of justified expenses as provided by the law “On Personal Income Tax.”

No, usually a technical aid cannot be received immediately after submitting the documents. The VTPC first examines the submitted documents and makes a decision – whether the aid is granted, the person is placed on the waiting list, or the grant is denied. The receipt of the aid occurs in the order of the queue, except for urgent cases provided for in the regulations (for example, for children, persons with predictable disabilities, or after a serious injury)

No, usually a technical aid cannot be received immediately after submitting the documents. The VTPC first examines the submitted documents and makes a decision – whether the aid is granted, the person is placed on the waiting list, or the grant is denied. The receipt of the aid occurs in the order of the queue, except for urgent cases provided for in the regulations (for example, for children, persons with predictable disabilities, or after a serious injury)

To apply for the urgent receipt of a technical aid (aid), the application must include a document that justifies the right to urgent consideration. The required document depends on the person's situation (for example, health condition, education, work, or other special situations).
Detailed information about the urgent procedure and the documents to be submitted is available in the website section, Urgent Procedure

When receiving the technical aid, the person must present: An identity document (for example, a passport or ID card), 
A power of attorney if the aid is received by another person on behalf of the authorized person (the power of attorney does not necessarily have to be notarized)
These documents ensure that the aid is issued to the correct person or their authorized representative.

Trips to specific locations are planned only when client applications have been received. If you have applied to receive a technical aid at a specific trip location, the VTPC department will contact you as soon as the trip date is confirmed. Information about planned trips is provided individually –  by phone.
To find out if a trip to a specific location is already being planned, you can contact the nearest VTPC department. Applications for trip locations are open until the trip is confirmed.

Yes, it is possible. If a person is already in line for an aid that compensates for a specific function (for example, mobility), but another aid with a similar function is needed, the existing appointment must first be canceled.

To apply, the person must have a statement prepared in the e-health system by a doctor or a certified functional specialist (physiotherapist, occupational therapist, audiologist, technical orthopedist) regarding the necessity of the technical aid. An application for the provision of the aid must also be submitted.

The statement must include: preparation date, personal data, diagnosis and code, description of functional impairments and recommendations, recommended aid and urgency. The statement is prepared by a certified doctor or functional specialist. Validity period – 6 months.

You must personally come to receive alternative communication technical aids, orthoses, prostheses, orthopedic shoes, children's mobility aids, and all types of wheelchairs, including powered wheelchairs.

If the application for the receipt of the technical aid device is submitted by the legal representative of the child or an adult, the following must be submitted: 
* an application for the allocation of the technical aid device, which in addition to the personal data also includes the representative's personal data; 
* a copy of the document certifying the rights of representation, if it is not possible to verify these rights in the Population and Migration Affairs Office's Register of Natural Persons;
* other documents specified in regulatory enactments, if they are necessary for receiving a specific type of technical aid device.

If the application for the receipt of the technical aid device is submitted by the legal representative of the child or adult, the following must be submitted: 
* an application for the allocation of the technical aid device, which in addition to the personal data also includes the representative's personal data; 
* a copy of the document certifying the rights of representation, if it is not possible to verify these rights in the Register of Natural Persons of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs;
* other documents specified in regulatory enactments, if they are necessary for receiving a specific type of technical aid device.

To assess the need for these technical aids, the Braden scale for pressure ulcer risk assessment must initially be filled out. The person must have a VDEĀVK opinion on the need for special care. If the Braden scale results indicate a high risk of pressure ulcers, a recommendation for receiving a technical aid may be prepared. Functional beds and/or bedside tables can be received by individuals with significant functional impairments if the Braden scale score does not exceed 9 points, while a pressure-relieving mattress can be received if the score does not exceed 18.

You can choose the most convenient way for you: electronically, in paper form, or in person. Once the application is signed (with a secure e-signature or in paper form), you can submit it in person, send it by mail, send it electronically, or fill it out online in our customer portal.

Initial prosthesis — about a year. Permanent — longer, depending on usage and changes in the trunk.

You need to prepare two main documents: a doctor's or specialist's opinion and your completed application.

The process includes measurements, test shells, adjustments, permanent shell manufacturing, and prosthesis regulation.

The repair for the issued technical aid is organized by the Vaivaru Technical Aids Center (VTPC) or the service provider, depending on where the aid was received.
If the technical aid was received at the VTPC department, please contact the nearest VTPC department and schedule a repair or maintenance.
If the aid was received from a service provider, all types of repairs and maintenance will be carried out by your service provider.
This procedure ensures that the repair is carried out efficiently and according to the location where the aid was issued.

If the technical aid is received at the Vaivari Technical Aids Center (VTPC), warranty maintenance and repairs are carried out at VTPC.  
If the aid is received from another service provider, warranty maintenance and repairs are carried out by that service provider.

If it is found during the repair that the defect was caused by user fault, the repair costs are covered by the user.

The mask needs to be regularly cleaned according to the instructions for use and the manufacturer's recommendations.

Filters must be checked and cleaned or replaced regularly according to the deadlines specified in the instructions.

Yes, the breathing tube must be cleaned regularly to ensure hygiene.