Vol. 10 No. 1 Winter 2002	Previous Issues Subscribe to AT Messenger Download PDF Viewer
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Assistive Technology Infrastructure Grant Awarded to Delaware

It has been over two years since the Supreme Court issued its decision in Olmstead v. L.C., a landmark ruling for people with disabilities. The Supreme Court determined that unnecessary segregation and institutionalization of people with disabilities constitutes discrimination and violates the Americans with Disabilities Act. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) subsequently issued guidance to the states urging them to develop plans for full compliance with Olmstead. HHS, through its Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS, formerly known as the Health Care Financing Administration), recently held several competitions for grant funds to assist states in implementing system changes consistent with Olmstead.

AT Supports Community Living

There is no question that access to assistive technology (AT) would make it possible for many more individuals with disabilities to live in the community safely and with enhanced independence. Despite Delaware's progress in linking people with the AT-related supports that they need, DATI's recent survey results indicate that we could be doing much better. The survey data underscore the need for greater awareness, more training for consumers and service providers alike, more responsive and predictable funding mechanisms, and better coordination among agencies. In fact, a recent statewide study notes that fragmentation continues to be one of the most troublesome aspects of the state's services-and-supports systems (DeSantis, 1999).

A Blueprint for Delaware

This past summer, consumers, advocates, and state agency representatives joined forces in developing a blueprint for Delaware's AT-related future. The result was a plan for an AT infrastructure characterized by the following elements:

• A service availability model in which an analysis of individual needs includes consideration of AT as a means to increase independence, productivity, and satisfaction.
  
• A systematic process for exploring AT options, selecting devices and services based on individual needs and preferences, and procuring the needed devices/supports/services that is both efficient and fiscally responsible.
  
• A means for tracking AT within the system to increase device re-use, avoid unnecessary purchase, and improve accountability.
  
• A means for tracking outcomes to document the benefits of technology access on community living and to alert stakeholders to the existence of problems or gaps in service.
  
• Consumers, family members, and advocates who are knowledgeable about AT options and the services and supports they will need to use AT safely and effectively.
  
• Staff who are sufficiently trained to recognize potential AT applications, know the process for exploring and securing AT for individuals, and support individuals in using AT.
  
• A well-articulated and cohesive network of supports that facilitates the seamless transition of individuals from one service system to another.
  

This vision was articulated in a proposal submitted to CMS, with the Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services taking the lead role. There was much rejoicing on September 28, 2001, when Delaware received word that its three-year proposal would be funded in the amount of $1.2 million. This funding will support:

• needs assessments
  
• a comprehensive awareness and training campaign
  
• the establishment of a streamlined process for accessing AT
  
• broad-based information dissemination
  
• the establishment of alternatives to traditional means of accessing AT, including equipment recycling and low-interest loan programs
  
• capacity building and
  
• data collection, tracking, and evaluation activities.
  

Dr. Joseph Keyes, project director, states, "This grant will allow all Delaware citizens with disabilities to have improved access to assistive technology. We hope that more people with disabilities will be able to live in the community or continue to live in their own homes."

With support from the resulting infrastructure, consumers will learn about and explore various technology options. They will select service providers from a pool of well-qualified individuals. With access to technology for trial use, they will be confident that the device they select truly meets their needs and lives up to their expectations. They will identify sources of support for which they quality that will enable them to procure devices and services, and they will secure funding from those sources efficiently and without sacrificing their dignity. They will have alternatives for AT access if they choose not to rely on public support, and they will be able to count on continued support as their needs change over time.

In addition to its value for the individual, the project will help the state document its expenditures for AT devices and services, and will conduct analyses of fiscal impact and consumer satisfaction. "The partnership of Delaware Health and Social Services, the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative, and the Center for Disabilities Studies presents an opportunity for us to bring together the key components necessary to address the issue of AT access and infrastructure for people with disabilities in Delaware," adds Keyes.

Project Implementation

A Consumer/Stakeholder Advisory Board will provide oversight to the project, and all state agencies serving individuals with disabilities will participate. For more information on Delaware's new Assistive Technology Access Infrastructure project, contact Dr. Joseph Keyes at (302) 739-4452.

References

DeSantis, C. (1999). Strategic Assessment: Care and Services for Non-elderly Adults with Disabilities in Delaware. Hockessin, DE: Cari DeSantis Consultants.