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? | Yes |
Area of Residence | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|
Metro RUCC 1-3 |
Non-Metro RUCC 4-9 |
||
Approved Loan made | 17 | 08 | 25 |
Approved Not made | 17 | 07 | 24 |
Rejected | 12 | 07 | 19 |
Total | 46 | 22 | 68 |
Lowest Income: | $9,708 | Highest Income: | $206,969 |
---|
Sum of Incomes | Loans Made | Average Annual Income |
---|---|---|
$1,880,625 | 25 | $75,225 |
Income Ranges | Total | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
$15,000 or Less |
$15,001- $30,000 |
$30,001- $45,000 |
$45,001- $60,000 |
$60,001- $75,000 |
$75,001 or More |
||
Number of Loans | 02 | 03 | 02 | 05 | 03 | 10 | 25 |
Percentage of Loans | 8% | 12% | 8% | 20% | 12% | 40% | 100% |
Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Percentage of loans |
---|---|---|
Revolving Loans | 00 | 0% |
Partnership Loans | ||
Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee | 04 | 16% |
With interest buy-down only | 00 | 0% |
With loan guarantee only | 21 | 84% |
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee | 00 | 0% |
Total | 25 | 100% |
Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Dollar Value of Loans |
---|---|---|
Revolving Loans | 00 | $0 |
Partnership Loans | 25 | $644,719 |
Total | 25 | $644,719 |
Lowest | 3% |
---|---|
Highest | 3% |
Sum of Interest Rates | Number of Loans Made | Average Interest Rate |
---|---|---|
75 | 25 | 3% |
Interest Rate | Number of loans |
---|---|
0.0% to 2.0% | 00 |
2.1% to 4.0% | 25 |
4.1% to 6.0% | 00 |
6.1% to 8.0% | 00 |
8.1% - 10.0% | 00 |
10.1%-12.0% | 00 |
12.1%-14.0% | 00 |
14.1% + | 00 |
Total | 25 |
Type of AT | Number of Devices Financed | Dollar Value of Loans |
---|---|---|
Vision | 00 | $0 |
Hearing | 02 | $10,780 |
Speech communication | 00 | $0 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 00 | $0 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 07 | $234,583 |
Daily living | 00 | $0 |
Environmental adaptations | 02 | $15,000 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 14 | $384,356 |
Computers and related | 00 | $0 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 00 | $0 |
Total | 25 | $644,719 |
Number Loans in default | 03 |
---|---|
Net loss for loans in default | $10,311 |
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? | 1 |
---|
How would you describe this state financing activity? | Telecommunications equipment distribution |
---|
County of Residence | Individuals Served |
---|---|
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 50 |
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 5 |
C. Total Served | 55 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 55 |
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 | 19 | 6283.00 |
Hearing | 26 | 7208.00 |
Speech communication | 9 | 10310.00 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 8 | 6044.00 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 7 | 5958.00 |
Daily living | 0 | 0.00 |
Environmental adaptations | 0 | 0.00 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | 0.00 |
Computers and related | 0 | 0.00 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 0 | 0.00 |
Total | 69 | 35803.00 |
How many state financing activities that allow consumers to obtain AT at a reduced cost were included in your approved state plan? | 1 |
---|
How would you describe this state financing activity? | Cooperative Buying Program |
---|
County of Residence | Individuals Served |
---|---|
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 128 |
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 1 |
C. Total Served | 129 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 84 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 45 |
If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:
School systems are required to purchase AT regardless of discounted AT purchases through the cooperative buying program.
Type of AT Device / Service | Number Provided | Total Estimated Current Retail Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Devices Were Sold | Savings to Consumers |
---|---|---|---|---|
Vision | 972 | 40995 | 36793.00 | 4202.00 |
Hearing | 11 | 1960 | 1803.00 | 157.00 |
Speech communication | 2148 | 393073 | 333660.00 | 59413.00 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 1170 | 52680 | 45204.00 | 7476.00 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Daily living | 45 | 1412 | 1236.00 | 176.00 |
Environmental adaptations | 57 | 9533 | 8604.00 | 929.00 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Computers and related | 1092 | 61768 | 54303.00 | 7465.00 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 930 | 82197 | 71023.00 | 11174.00 |
Total | 6425 | 643618 | 552626.00 | 90992.00 |
Churchville Lions Club in Harford county contacted us to see if AT Discount Sales & Services LLC, the cooperative buying program of Maryland, could help provide a much needed seating system for a family in need. They had a budget limit of $5,000 and were hoping to fully fund the equipment so there was no cost to the family. With the help of the child's school physical therapist the appropriate piece of equipment was identified. By purchasing this through AT Discount Sales & Services LLC they saved $842.25 and were able to fully fund the equipment with all the accessories needed. This new seating system allows the child the opportunity of a safe alternate position which gives them increased opportunities to be involved in rec and leisure activities.
The Assistive Technology Financial Loan Program (low interest financial loan program) provided a loan for Mr. & Mrs. S to purchase a modified vehicle to transport their growing, non-ambulatory child with cerebral palsy. The S family was initially approved on their own merit by the partner lender; however, the loan was later declined by the lender when the lender discovered that the high cost of the vehicle modifications exceeded the value of the vehicle. During the loan closing process, and after the initial loan program board review and approval, it was found that the co-borrower's income changed due to COVID-19 hardship, ultimately increasing the family's debt-to-income ratio. With the help of ATLP staff, the family was subsequently able to secure a guaranteed loan for the full cost of the vehicle and adaptations giving their family a safe way to transport their child.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 05 | 21 | 95 | 121 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 04 | 04 |
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 | 05 | 21 | 99 | 125 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 05 | 21 | 99 | 125 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 05 | 21 | 99 | 125 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 188 | 89.95% |
Satisfied | 13 | 6.22% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 08 | 3.83% |
Total Surveyed | 209 | |
Response rate % | 96.17% |
During FY21, MDTAP continued its efforts to increase marketing and awareness of the Assistive Technology Financial Loan Program, working with potential applicants and organizations to increase the number of loans made during this period. Although the loan issued rates are still lower than pre-COVID levels, the program is hopeful that these continued efforts will result in larger numbers of loans made in FY22. Additionally, MDTAP experienced a lapse in state contracts from 7/1/21 thru 9/30/21, resulting in lower numbers of those served through the cooperative buying program. This issue has since been resolved.
Activity | Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity |
---|---|
A. Device Exchange | 02 |
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan | 236 |
C. Total | 238 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. Device Exchange - Excluded from Performance Measure | 01 |
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 | 237 |
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 | 02 | $6,265 | $2,000 | $4,265 |
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 | 02 | $6,265 | $2,000 | $4,265 |
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 | 11 | $23,480 | $0 | $23,480 |
Hearing | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Speech Communication | 07 | $22,626 | $0 | $22,626 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 19 | $24,940 | $0 | $24,940 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 280 | $427,975 | $0 | $427,975 |
Daily Living | 37 | $47,455 | $0 | $47,455 |
Environmental Adaptations | 01 | $1,500 | $0 | $1,500 |
Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Computers and Related | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 01 | $4,200 | $0 | $4,200 |
Total | 356 | $552,176 | $0 | $552,176 |
The Maryland AT Program runs the Maryland High-tech AT Reuse Center (MATR), a place where constituents, programs, and agencies can donate gently used AT, and the program cleans, repairs, and/or refurbishes those items for distribution back into the community. The High-tech AT Reuse Center launched in January 2020, but has only started to actively gain momentum with donations and redistributions because of the pause that was created during the onset of COVID 19. In May 2021, an educator in Baltimore county contacted MATR to see if she could help one of her students, a 10-year-old with multiple disabilities, access an eye gaze system to use at home. She facilitated the contact with MATR and coordinated the technology consultation with MATR's AT Specialist. Through this coordination, the student was able to acquire a donated eye gaze system for home use, and is now able to access communication and the internet while at home. He's also able to communicate wants and needs with his family, and connect with family members living in the Philippines. One additional and unintended impact is that he enjoys researching things he's learning in school and can now use the system at home to explore things he would not have access to otherwise. With this equipment, he's thriving in school and his world has been expanded at home with the eye-gaze system acquired through MATR.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 06 | 01 | 225 | 232 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 00 | 02 | 03 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 02 | 02 |
4. Subtotal | 07 | 01 | 229 | 237 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 07 | 01 | 229 | 237 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 07 | 01 | 229 | 237 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 237 | 99.58% |
Satisfied | 01 | 0.42% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 238 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
In FY21, device repair/refurbishment activities resumed at a higher level (as COVID 19 recovery efforts took place), and the Maryland High Tech AT Reuse Center returned to in-person coverage and more equipment distributions took place.
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan | Number |
---|---|
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) | 104 |
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding | 12 |
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation | 13 |
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 03 |
Total | 132 |
Type of Individual or Entity | Number of Device Borrowers | ||
---|---|---|---|
Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
Individuals with Disabilities | 58 | 25 | 83 |
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 21 | 00 | 21 |
Representative of Education | 10 | 00 | 10 |
Representative of Employment | 01 | 00 | 01 |
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 08 | 00 | 08 |
Representatives of Community Living | 05 | 02 | 07 |
Representatives of Technology | 01 | 01 | 02 |
Total | 104 | 28 | 132 |
Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days | 30 |
---|
Type of AT Device | Number of Devices | ||
---|---|---|---|
Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
Vision | 55 | 05 | 60 |
Hearing | 06 | 01 | 07 |
Speech Communication | 32 | 01 | 33 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 04 | 00 | 04 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 02 | 01 | 03 |
Daily Living | 07 | 02 | 09 |
Environmental Adaptations | 15 | 17 | 32 |
Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Computers and Related | 42 | 02 | 44 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 01 | 00 | 01 |
Total | 164 | 29 | 193 |
One of our clients, Ms. W, borrowed a Pocket Talker Ultra from MDTAP in preparation for a regional staff meeting that was coming. It was vital for Ms. W to be able to hear her colleagues better. She has age-related hearing loss and wanted to borrow a device to help her compensate in a louder, noisy conference-room environment. Ms. W was able to borrow the Pocket Talker and utilize it during the regional staff meeting. After the loan was concluded, Ms. W. reached out to tell us, “This device worked so well and really improved my ability to hear everyone at the meeting. I even let a couple of my colleagues try it out and they want to purchase one of these as well!” MDTAP staff was then able to help her find a vendor online and make the purchase.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 18 | 07 | 47 | 72 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 03 | 05 | 16 | 24 |
Subtotal | 21 | 12 | 63 | 96 |
Have not made a decision | 02 | 00 | 06 | 08 |
Subtotal | 23 | 12 | 69 | 104 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 23 | 12 | 69 | 104 |
Performance on this measure | 91.3% | 100% | 91.3% |
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 | 20 | 20 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 00 | 02 | 03 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 01 | 00 | 01 |
4. Subtotal | 01 | 01 | 22 | 24 |
5. None of the above | 01 | 00 | 03 | 04 |
6. Subtotal | 02 | 01 | 25 | 28 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 02 | 01 | 25 | 28 |
9. Performance on this measure | 50% | 100% | 88% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 124 | 93.94% |
Satisfied | 05 | 3.79% |
Satisfied somewhat | 01 | 0.76% |
Not at all satisfied | 01 | 0.76% |
Nonrespondent | 01 | 0.76% |
Total Surveyed | 132 | |
Response rate % | 99.24% |
As the state moved into COVID recovery efforts in FY21, MDTAP's device loans began to pick back up, moving closer to pre-Covid levels. We did, however, experience a gap in regional statewide services between 7/1/21 thru 9/30/21 (the last quarter of the federal reporting period), which resulted in fewer device loans in the three outlying regions of Maryland - Western Maryland, Southern Maryland, and Eastern Shore. Although our central office was able to accommodate requests for shipping devices for device loans and virtual demonstrations in these regions, our regional contractors were unable to participate in community driven device loans because of a lapse in contracts. This has since been resolved and we anticipate a steady increase in device loans in federal fiscal year 2022.
Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
---|---|
Vision | 43 |
Hearing | 09 |
Speech Communication | 08 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 04 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 02 |
Daily Living | 06 |
Environmental Adaptations | 04 |
Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 |
Computers and Related | 08 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 01 |
Total # of Devices Demonstrated | 85 |
Type of Participant | Number of Participants in Device Demonstrations |
---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 55 |
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 28 |
Representatives of Education | 07 |
Representatives of Employment | 01 |
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 06 |
Representative of Community Living | 12 |
Representative of Technology | 00 |
Total | 109 |
Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
---|---|
Funding Source (non-AT program) | 05 |
Service Provider | 01 |
Vendor | 08 |
Repair Service | 00 |
Others | 03 |
Total | 17 |
After the conclusion of our AT @ Work for Seniors Training (which the G family attended), Mr. G reached out to MDTAP for an AT consultation and equipment demonstrations. He, his wife, and their son, came into the library together at which point staff was able to demonstrate a number of devices for each of them including blind-low vision video magnifiers e.g.: the Ruby XL HD, The Topaz HD 24” CCTV, and the Humanware Connect 12 (with OCR capabilities) to show Mr. G a range of items that may benefit his ability to read various documents, mail, books, etc. Staff was able to work with Ms. G and show her items that may help with her Arthritis e.g.: built up handles for silverware, toothbrush, etc. so that she wouldn’t have to close her hand as tight to preserve her joints and decrease pain / inflammation. Staff was also able to demonstrate for her adaptive door knobs that can alter a round doorknob into one with a handle to ease the hand movements and strain on distal upper extremity joints when turning knobs, as well as adaptive jar openers that will ease with the function of turning and opening jars with arthritis. And for the son, staff was able to demonstrate various apps for tablets and smart phones to assist him with scheduling his daily activities i.e. Reminder, Reminders, with Voice and another app to help with literacy and reading through the use of OCR capabilities: Seeing AI. Our device demonstrations have resumed their in-person style as well as virtual (through Zoom, or Google Meets) in an effort to reach as many individuals throughout the state who may not feel comfortable with in-person contact, or have limited transportation.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 10 | 07 | 51 | 68 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 01 | 01 | 08 | 10 |
Subtotal | 11 | 08 | 59 | 78 |
Have not made a decision | 01 | 00 | 06 | 07 |
Subtotal | 12 | 08 | 65 | 85 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 12 | 08 | 65 | 85 |
Performance on this measure | 91.67% | 100% | 90.77% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 105 | 96.33% |
Satisfied | 04 | 3.67% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total | 109 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
As the state moved into COVID recovery efforts in FY21, MDTAP's device loans began to pick back up, moving closer to pre-Covid levels. We did, however, experience a gap in regional statewide services between 7/1/21 thru 9/30/21 (the last quarter of the federal reporting period), which resulted in fewer device loans in the three outlying regions of Maryland - Western Maryland, Southern Maryland, and Eastern Shore. Although our central office was able to accommodate requests for shipping devices for device loans and virtual demonstrations in these regions, our regional contractors were unable to participate in community driven device demonstrations because of a lapse in contracts. This has since been resolved and we anticipate a steady increase in device demonstrations in federal fiscal year 2022.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 11 | 22 | 340 | 373 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 02 | 00 | 08 | 10 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 01 | 02 | 03 |
4. Subtotal | 13 | 23 | 350 | 386 |
5. None of the above | 01 | 00 | 03 | 04 |
6. Subtotal | 14 | 23 | 353 | 390 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 14 | 23 | 353 | 390 |
9. Performance on this measure | 92.86% | 95.65% | 98.58% | 98.21% |
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 | 28 | 14 | 98 | 140 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 04 | 06 | 24 | 34 |
Subtotal | 32 | 20 | 122 | 174 |
Have not made a decision | 03 | 00 | 12 | 15 |
Subtotal | 35 | 20 | 134 | 189 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 35 | 20 | 134 | 189 |
Performance on this measure | 91.43% | 100% | 91.04% | 92.06% |
ACL Performance Measure | 90% | |||
Met/Not Met | Met |
Customer Rating of Services | Percent | ACL Target | Met/Not Met |
---|---|---|---|
Highly satisfied and satisfied | 99.71% | 95% | Met |
Response Rate | 98.69% | 90% | Met |
Type of Participant | Number |
---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 101 |
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 38 |
Representatives of Education | 151 |
Representatives of Employment | 174 |
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 100 |
Representatives of Community Living | 73 |
Representatives of Technology | 91 |
Unable to Categorize | 123 |
TOTAL | 851 |
Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
---|---|---|---|
764 | 49 | 38 | 851 |
Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
---|---|
AT Products/Services | 333 |
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 25 |
Combination of any/all of the above | 84 |
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 284 |
Transition | 125 |
Total | 851 |
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
On February 17th, MDTAP conducted a training on "AT to Combat Social Isolation." This training addressed an important and pertinent dilemma that many Marylanders (Americans) faced which arose secondary to the pandemic in regard to the stay-at-home orders and the halting of many businesses, health care services, social gatherings, etc. As Marylanders took the time to heal and keep loved ones safe a new dilemma came to light: the feeling of isolation and loneliness. Marylanders who didn’t have the technology to keep them in touch with their support groups, churches, adult day services, may have increased feelings of depression, suicidal ideation, loneliness, helplessness. We at MDTAP felt this was something that needed to be addressed through a training of what technology was available that could help bridge these gaps in isolation and increase individuals ability to connect with their respective groups, tribes, families, friends, and the like. We had 66 individuals across 15 different counties in Maryland with different disciplines (health representatives, technology representatives, individuals with disabilities etc.) in attendance. This training covered key vocabulary (e.g. social isolation vs loneliness) and the impact of social isolation on mental and physical health, and offered numerous technology interventions (some free and others various pricing) to increase interactions with friends, family, and various organizations. This training lead to multiple individuals reaching out in regards to learning more about the technology explored in the slide deck, how to utilize it, and what type of internet connection is needed, etc. A number of health care, tech, and community representatives reached out just to convey how helpful this training was and that the information presented was very relevant and helpful to give individuals the knowledge and options to stay engaged with others.
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
A certified ATP provided training on assistive technology and transitioning: middle school to high school; high school to post-graduation; hospital or assisted living to home. There were 81 attendees from all categories (Individuals with disabilities, Community Living, Reps of Education, Reps of Employment, Family, Reps of Health, and Technology) and 17 of the state's 23 counties. A representative of education thought the presentation would benefit their special educators with transitioning students, so our AT Specialist repeated the presentation to 44 staff members. Information on the types of transitions and how to acquire AT once a student is ready to transition from school to higher education or out of public education was shared. The positive impact was that attendees gained valuable information on how to assist their students to obtain the AT the need through and after transition.
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
On April 20th, ICT staff hosted a training session on Video Conferencing Accessibility, as a direct result of ongoing inquiries at the state level about the accessibility functionality in various web conferencing platforms. This session had 63 participants representing state agencies, education institutions, technology representatives, and more. The session focused on alternatives for accessibility in video conferencing including: captioning, accessible materials, language use and narration, and sign language interpretation. Staff provided a demonstration of how to make accessible materials, such as slide decks and PDFs, and participants learned about specific capabilities within multiple platforms including Google Meets, Microsoft Teams, Cisco WebEx, and Zoom.
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
---|---|
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 74 |
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 104 |
No known outcome at this time | 102 |
Nonrespondent | 04 |
Total | 284 |
Performance Measure Percentage | 62.7% |
ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
Met/Not Met | Not Met |
During FY21, MDTAP increased its virtual trainings on a variety of AT-specific and ICT topics. As a result of the pandemic, we have increased our trainings and identified a more successful method for capturing training data. In FY22, we will focus on increasing the performance measure targets for ICT to better capture the results from our ICT trainings.
Education | 15% |
---|---|
Employment | 24% |
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | % |
Community Living | % |
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 61% |
Total | 100% |
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
The Maryland IT Accessibility team, part of the MDTAP staff, met with the Digital Accessibility Coordinator for the State of Michigan to discuss how Maryland has established a statewide, interagency approach to procuring accessible IT and evaluating current state websites. The team provided guidance on Maryland's practices and followed up with an additional meeting with Michigan state government employees in the office of civil rights and digital access. We anticipate an ongoing collaboration with Michigan as they implement ways to improve and expand their statewide accessibility approach.
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
The Maryland AT program has been part of the Statewide Interagency Transition Council - a council comprised of state agency representatives, local transition council reps, vocational rehabilitation representatives, and more. In October 2020, MDTAP worked with IATC members to contribute to and finalize two transition documents - the Student Resource Map and the State Agencies’ Transition Collaborative of Maryland (SATC-MD) guide. Both documents are available to those involved in the transition process at a local district level, including educators, parents, and students, and provides guidance on programs and steps during the transition from school to higher education or the workforce. Both documents include technology as a key part of the successful transition process.
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. MDTAP staff hosted a session on assistive technology services and AT demonstrations during the Arc of Maryland's Partners in Policymaking event. This multi-day virtual program brings together advocates, people with I/DD, people with physical disabilities, service providers, family members, and others to explore AT resources and services. The intent of the program is to empower, educate, and inform so that people with disabilities, family members, and providers can better advocate for change and inclusion on a legislative platform. We had 31 attendees during this session.
2. MDTAP staff presented on assistive technology and AT services during the annual conference for Maryland Service Coordinators. This brought together nearly 100 service coordinators from across the state to learn about AT, how to implement AT when working with constituents, when to make a referral to the MDTAP program, and included a demonstration of some AT devices that can support the varied needs of consumers. This session also included information on funding AT, various methods to include AT in waivers, and additional services across the state that can be combined to support the AT needs of Marylanders.
Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
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Individuals with Disabilities | 148 | 19 | 167 |
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 76 | 12 | 88 |
Representative of Education | 34 | 92 | 126 |
Representative of Employment | 04 | 32 | 36 |
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 35 | 02 | 37 |
Representative of Community Living | 90 | 23 | 113 |
Representative of Technology | 02 | 01 | 03 |
Unable to Categorize | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 389 | 181 | 570 |
MDTAP is working on a strategy to increase outreach with a direct intent of increasing our Information & Assistance data in FY22. We believe that a part of the decline in numbers between FY20 and FY21 is directly related to fewer constituent requests during COVID and a lapse in our regional contract services for the final quarter of FY21. With contracts back in place, more targeted outreach strategies developed, and a more nuanced system for recording assistance calls and emails, we anticipate having I&A data return to pre-Covid levels in FY22.
Coordination/Collaboration activities are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR coordination/collaboration activities for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting? | 1 |
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1. As concisely as possible, describe the partnership initiative. What activities/services were provided? Who are the major collaborating organizations and what is their role? Who is served/benefited? What funding was used to implement the initiative?
During FY21, MDTAP has established an ongoing partnership with the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), to begin developing a plan for the state's Technology First Initiative. This initiative will be a multi-year, multi-agency/organization approach to ensuring that technology is considered as a first option for people with disabilities, particularly when receiving services through providers and funding through waivers. This effort is directed by the DDA with MDTAP serving in a key-partner role, with the intent that the AT libraries will be instrumental in allowing for people with disabilities, family members, and providers to explore appropriate technology solutions and seek expert advice before implementing a solution.
2. As concisely as possible, describe the measurable results of the initiative and any lessons learned. How did access to AT change as a result of the coordination/collaboration/partnership? How did awareness of AT change as a result of the partnership? How did the reach of the state AT program change as a result of the partnership? What made the partnership successful? What would you change or wish you had done differently? Provided funding/resources are available, will the initiative continue or is this a one-time event? What advice would you give for replication of the initiative? Please include URL for initiative if available.
This work is ongoing and more direct impacts will be measured in the coming fiscal year, but MDTAP has worked on a technology process map and outreach goals with DDA, we have contributed to the creation of the Statewide Technology Taskforce, we maintain a chair on the Taskforce and the workgroups, and we meet monthly in direct consultation with DDA to help guide this project. As a result, we have connected with a number of organizations and agencies that are learning more about our services and better understanding the AT acquisition processes in Maryland.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Housing / Home Automation; Community Participation and Integration; Health;
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
Device Loan; Demonstration; Information & Assistance; Public Awareness; Technical Assistance;
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? | 01 |
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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.
The Maryland ICT team worked directly with the Office of State Procurement to develop and implement a training module on the laws & processes around procuring accessible information technology. This collaboration included work with Department of General Services (which oversees a portion of all state procurement AND all ongoing training of procurement officers) AND Department of Information Technology (DoIT).
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.)
The developed curriculum is now integrated into the standard Maryland OSP training program, which is a mandated training for all state procurement officers. The training highlights the necessity for including IT Accessibility in all state RFPs, evaluating vendor claims of accessibility, and implementing a checks & balances system before awarding IT procurements when accessibility is required. For more information on this module, email andrew.drummond@maryland.gov, Director of IT Accessibility Policy & Programs with the Maryland Department of Disabilities.
3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?
Technology (ICT accessibility and AT
Did you have Additional and Leveraged Funding to Report? | Yes |
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Fund Source | Amount | Use of Funds | Data Reported |
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Private | $7,500 | Training | True |
Amount: $7,500 |
Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Mon Mar 07 2022 11:06:52 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)