Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include any State Financing? | Yes |
---|---|
Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include conducting a Financial Loan Program? | No |
How many other state financing activities that provide consumers with access to funds for the purchase of AT devices and services were included in your approved state plan? | 02 |
---|
How would you describe this state financing activity? | telecommunications distribution |
---|
County of Residence | Individuals Served |
---|---|
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 46 |
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 25 |
C. Total Served | 71 |
Performance Measure | Number |
---|---|
D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 00 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 71 |
If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:
Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Devices Funded |
Value of
AT Provided |
---|---|---|
Vision | 20 | $14,700 |
Hearing | 65 | $15,342 |
Speech communication | 18 | $14,180 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 00 | $0 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 00 | $0 |
Daily living | 00 | $0 |
Environmental adaptations | 00 | $0 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 00 | $0 |
Computers and related | 00 | $0 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 00 | $0 |
Total | 103 | $44,222 |
How would you describe this state financing activity? | last resort activity |
---|
County of Residence | Individuals Served |
---|---|
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 79 |
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 101 |
C. Total Served | 180 |
Performance Measure | Number |
---|---|
D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 00 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 180 |
If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:
Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Devices Funded |
Value of
AT Provided |
---|---|---|
Vision | 233 | $32,800 |
Hearing | 84 | $12,590 |
Speech communication | 19 | $1,456 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 00 | $0 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 94 | $3,447 |
Daily living | 264 | $16,325 |
Environmental adaptations | 16 | $1,335 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 00 | $0 |
Computers and related | 264 | $25,098 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 04 | $121 |
Total | 978 | $93,172 |
How many state financing activities that allow consumers to obtain AT at a reduced cost were included in your approved state plan? | 00 |
---|
A resident of Kodiak, who is currently battling throat cancer, experienced a serious health setback and was medevaced to an Anchorage hospital. Cancer had damaged his vocal cords to the point where he was unable to speak. Due to complications from a previous stroke, his dexterity was also limited. He used a whiteboard to communicate with hospital staff, but it was often illegible. Subsequently, his Speech-Language Pathologist and social worker reached out to ATLA to learn about our iPad program through Alaska Relay. After receiving his qualification paperwork, an iPad with a case, stylus, and appropriate apps were sent to the hospital. Obviously, due to COVID19, ATLA staff was unable to meet in-person for the training and set-up. Fortunately, staff was able to help set up the iPad and provide training on Proloquo4Text via Facetime. Subsequent follow-up phone calls indicated that he was becoming accustomed to the iPad, and the communication obstacles had reduced significantly.
An individual that is an active member of their community by serving as a board member, volunteering, and attending meetings locally and out of state began experiencing rapid deterioration of their vision. They contacted ATLA and requested equipment through our National DeafBlind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEP) so that they could continue to be active and involved in their community. While flying to attend a conference out-of-state, the baggage handlers damaged the individual’s portable CCTV. The portable CCTV was essential for the client to view their schedule, meeting information, and day-to-day tasks. After they qualified for the NDBEP program, the individual received multiple technologies for distance communication, including a large smart tablet, OCR, and a camera that provides close and distance viewing along with magnification. After just a week of using the devices, the individual requested a “shortcut keys” list be provided to increase their effectiveness at using the device.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 218 | 218 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 12 | 21 | 33 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
4. Subtotal | 00 | 12 | 239 | 251 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 00 | 12 | 239 | 251 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 00 | 12 | 239 | 251 |
9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 249 | 99.2% |
Satisfied | 02 | 0.8% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 251 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
Activity | Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity |
---|---|
A. Device Exchange | 00 |
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan | 39 |
C. Total | 39 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. Device Exchange - Excluded from Performance Measure | 00 |
E. Reassignment/Refurbishment and Repair and Open Ended Loans - Excluded from Performance Measure because AT is provided to or on behalf of an entity that has an obligation to provide the AT such as schools under IDEA or VR agencies/clients | 00 |
F. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 39 |
If a number is reported in E you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:
Type of AT Device | Number of Devices Exchanged | Total Estimated Current Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Exchanged | Savings to Consumers |
---|---|---|---|---|
Vision | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Hearing | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Speech Communication | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Daily Living | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Environmental Adaptations | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Computers and Related | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Total | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Type of AT Device | Number of Devices Reassigned/Refurbished and Repaired | Total Estimated Current Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Sold | Savings to Consumers |
---|---|---|---|---|
Vision | 09 | $3,318 | $0 | $3,318 |
Hearing | 41 | $6,036 | $0 | $6,036 |
Speech Communication | 07 | $16,075 | $0 | $16,075 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 02 | $730 | $0 | $730 |
Daily Living | 01 | $200 | $0 | $200 |
Environmental Adaptations | 03 | $950 | $0 | $950 |
Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Computers and Related | 22 | $12,796 | $0 | $12,796 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 06 | $674 | $0 | $674 |
Total | 91 | $40,779 | $0 | $40,779 |
A state senior home contacted ATLA regarding a resident that needed a device to connect through Zoom meetings and telehealth appointments. Due to COVID-19, she could no longer attend meetings in person but wanted to continue to be involved. The individual was ready to learn and had limited prior experience with iPads. Fortunately, ATLA was able to provide the resident with a slightly-used iPad. Staff added Zoom to the device and changed the accessibility settings to meet her vision, hearing, and other needs. The individual not only uses the device for Zoom meetings but also to call their family via Facetime and stay connected. The Senior Home staff happily reported that the resident enjoys and appreciates the ability to have social interaction.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 32 | 32 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 07 | 07 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
4. Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 39 | 39 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 39 | 39 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 00 | 00 | 39 | 39 |
9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | NaN% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 39 | 100% |
Satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 39 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan | Number |
---|---|
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) | 55 |
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding | 06 |
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation | 05 |
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 01 |
Total | 67 |
Type of Individual or Entity | Number of Device Borrowers |
---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 30 |
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 11 |
Representative of Education | 02 |
Representative of Employment | 08 |
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 16 |
Representatives of Community Living | 00 |
Representatives of Technology | 00 |
Total | 67 |
Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days | 01 |
---|
Type of AT Device | Number |
---|---|
Vision | 11 |
Hearing | 17 |
Speech Communication | 40 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 18 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 09 |
Daily Living | 03 |
Environmental Adaptations | 03 |
Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 |
Computers and Related | 34 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 06 |
Total | 141 |
An ATLA staff member traveled to another Alaskan city to provide a meeting for individuals to learn about ATLA services. An attendee who experiences vision challenges heard about ATLA's loan program. When the individual was traveling through Anchorage, they scheduled a demonstration of the different portable digital magnifiers and CCTVs at the ATLA Demonstration room. After seeing the demonstration, they requested the opportunity to use a portable digital magnifier at home to read mail, comb their hair, and look at grandchildren's pictures. ATLA was able to loan out the device. When the TechAbility program began, ATLA staff could not loan out vision equipment due to COVID-19 restrictions. Without the ability to meet with clients face-to-face or loan items, vision AT items in TechAbility was on hold. Since this individual had already had a demonstration and successfully used the device via ATLA's loan program, we could fulfill their TechAbility request for this vision equipment, knowing it was the correct AT device.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 05 | 09 | 38 | 52 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 00 | 01 | 02 | 03 |
Subtotal | 05 | 10 | 40 | 55 |
Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Subtotal | 05 | 10 | 40 | 55 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 05 | 10 | 40 | 55 |
Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 00 | 02 | 04 | 06 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 02 | 03 | 06 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
4. Subtotal | 01 | 04 | 07 | 12 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 01 | 04 | 07 | 12 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 01 | 04 | 07 | 12 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 67 | 100% |
Satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 67 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
---|---|
Vision | 118 |
Hearing | 101 |
Speech Communication | 25 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 41 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 11 |
Daily Living | 45 |
Environmental Adaptations | 15 |
Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 |
Computers and Related | 65 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 06 |
Total # of Devices Demonstrated | 427 |
Type of Participant | Number of Participants in Device Demonstrations |
---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 271 |
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 84 |
Representatives of Education | 05 |
Representatives of Employment | 00 |
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 154 |
Representative of Community Living | 27 |
Representative of Technology | 00 |
Total | 541 |
Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
---|---|
Funding Source (non-AT program) | 21 |
Service Provider | 10 |
Vendor | 13 |
Repair Service | 02 |
Others | 00 |
Total | 46 |
Demonstration activities had to drastically change due to COVID-19 since in-person meetings were no longer possible. ATLA rose to the challenge by using distance delivered technology. A demonstration was requested by therapy staff from an extended care facility. The therapy staff asked to view alternative mouse options for a resident who had limited to no movement in his arms and one hand. The resident was interested in using his computer again to communicate with friends and family who could not visit him in the facility. ATLA’s AT specialist presented various items from the agency demonstration room through the video camera on an iPad while holding a Zoom session from a laptop. The specialist was able to show how alternative mice are set up and how the devices can work using a computer. A variety of videos were shown of a person using the alternative mice. From this demo, the therapist shared resources with the family to determine the best device for the resident.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 08 | 25 | 351 | 384 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 09 | 06 | 28 | 43 |
Subtotal | 17 | 31 | 379 | 427 |
Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Subtotal | 17 | 31 | 379 | 427 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 17 | 31 | 379 | 427 |
Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 498 | 92.05% |
Satisfied | 43 | 7.95% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total | 541 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 00 | 02 | 254 | 256 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 14 | 31 | 46 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
4. Subtotal | 01 | 16 | 285 | 302 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 01 | 16 | 285 | 302 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 01 | 16 | 285 | 302 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
ACL Performance Measure | 85% | |||
Met/Not Met | Met |
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 13 | 34 | 389 | 436 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 09 | 07 | 30 | 46 |
Subtotal | 22 | 41 | 419 | 482 |
Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Subtotal | 22 | 41 | 419 | 482 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 22 | 41 | 419 | 482 |
Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
ACL Performance Measure | 90% | |||
Met/Not Met | Met |
Customer Rating of Services | Percent | ACL Target | Met/Not Met |
---|---|---|---|
Highly satisfied and satisfied | 100% | 95% | Met |
Response Rate | 100% | 90% | Met |
Type of Participant | Number |
---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 14 |
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 15 |
Representatives of Education | 78 |
Representatives of Employment | 45 |
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 555 |
Representatives of Community Living | 549 |
Representatives of Technology | 118 |
Unable to Categorize | 00 |
TOTAL | 1,374 |
Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
---|---|---|---|
1,216 | 158 | 00 | 1,374 |
Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
---|---|
AT Products/Services | 903 |
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 275 |
Combination of any/all of the above | 113 |
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 71 |
Transition | 12 |
Total | 1,374 |
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
In the spring, ATLA’s Program Manager provided a training on available services and equipment to the Alaska State School for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing. There were six people in attendance; however, the recording was posted on Facebook live and in a Facebook group of 40 members, which was made available to share. The training goal was to educate the students and their families on available assistive technology that may be critical to help ease their transition into college.
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
During the Full Lives Conference for Direct Service Professionals & Care Coordinators, ATLA provided a training workshop titled Solutions for Supporting Independent Living. During this training, examples of assistive technologies for all areas of need were shown, and an in-depth, facilitated discussion on how these could be used to support caregivers. Each of the 35 attendees provides services related to developmental disabilities, behavioral health, traumatic brain injuries, substance-related disorders, and senior services.
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
The Alaska Telecom Association (ATA) held their annual Tech Showcase, a trade show sponsored by ATA Associate Members where leaders from the telecommunication industry and vendors meet for two days. ATLA provided a training titled, “Accessible Telecommunications in Alaska,” where information was provided on the available programs for telecommunications AT and how each is funded. Attendees were educated on available equipment and how those operate. This training was essential as many telecom technicians were in attendance. The technicians that attended often travel throughout the state. Therefore, the training provided them with the knowledge to recognize assistive technology telecom equipment in Alaskan homes.
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
---|---|
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 71 |
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 00 |
No known outcome at this time | 00 |
Nonrespondent | 00 |
Total | 71 |
Performance Measure Percentage | 100% |
ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
Met/Not Met | Met |
Education | 10% |
---|---|
Employment | 10% |
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 30% |
Community Living | 50% |
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 0% |
Total | 100% |
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
In the spring, as the ramifications of the COVID-19 global pandemic materialized, ATLA reached out to key stakeholders within the Department of Health and Social Services to offer support after the Administration on Community Living’s announcement that funds would be made available to Aging and Disability Resource Centers. Over the following months, ATLA and DHSS were able to work together to develop an agreement that would provide each of the ADRC sites with demonstration kits, professional development, and a structure to acquire AT and services for Alaskans that may fall through the cracks of already available programs. Additionally, a referral system was developed to allow ongoing sustainability of the program after the ACL funding has closed.
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
Describe in detail at least one and no more than two innovative or high-impact public awareness activities conducted during this reporting period. Highlight the content/focus of the awareness information shared, the mechanism used to disseminate or communicate the awareness information, the numbers and/or types of individuals reached, and positive outcomes resulting from the activity. If quantative numbers are available regarding the reach of the activity, please provide those: however, quantative data is not required.
1. When ATLA was forced to close the agency doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts were made to make certain Alaskans knew we were still a resource for them to access assistive technology. Every Thursday from April 9th through May 21st, staff offered a Coffee Chat hour. During this hour, staff members were available on Zoom to discuss assistive technology solutions and services, answer questions, and let Alaskans know that we are still available to meet their needs, even from a distance. Some Coffee Chats were done as an open forum, while others had specific topics such as Accessible Gardening, Independent Living Solutions, and Communication Solutions. Altogether, we had 73 individuals join us during these informal Coffee Chat hours.
2.
Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
---|---|---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 4,989 | 1,054 | 6,043 |
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 136 | 526 | 662 |
Representative of Education | 2,495 | 1,010 | 3,505 |
Representative of Employment | 658 | 250 | 908 |
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 921 | 585 | 1,506 |
Representative of Community Living | 1,038 | 325 | 1,363 |
Representative of Technology | 318 | 190 | 508 |
Unable to Categorize | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 10,555 | 3,940 | 14,495 |
State improvement outcomes are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR state improvement outcomes for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting? | 00 |
---|
1. In one or two sentences, describe the outcome. Be as specific as possible about exactly what changed during this reporting period as a result of the AT program's initiative.
2. In one or two sentences, describe the written policies, practices, and procedures that have been developed and implemented as a result of the AT program's initiative. Include information about how to obtain the full documents, such as a Web site address or e-mail address of a contact person, but do not include the full documents here. (If there are no written polices, practices and procedures, explain why.)
3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?
1. In one or two sentences, describe the outcome. Be as specific as possible about exactly what changed during this reporting period as a result of the AT program's initiative.
2. In one or two sentences, describe the written policies, practices, and procedures that have been developed and implemented as a result of the AT program's initiative. Include information about how to obtain the full documents, such as a Web site address or e-mail address of a contact person, but do not include the full documents here. (If there are no written polices, practices and procedures, explain why.)
3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?
Did you have Additional and Leveraged Funding to Report? | Yes |
---|
Fund Source | Amount | Use of Funds |
---|---|---|
State Appropriations | $49,138 | State Financing |
Public/State Agency | $5,369 | Public Awareness, I&A |
Federal | $20,532 | State Financing |
Federal | $4,280 | Public Awareness, I&A |
Federal | $3,915 | Demonstration |
Public/State Agency | $22,564 | State Financing |
Amount: $105,798 |
Fund Source | Amount | Use of Funds | Individuals Served | Other Outcome |
---|
Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Thu Feb 04 2021 13:15:20 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)