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 | 07 | 00 | 07 |
Approved Not made | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Rejected | 01 | 01 | 02 |
Total | 08 | 01 | 09 |
Lowest Income: | $16,680 | Highest Income: | $88,112 |
---|
Sum of Incomes | Loans Made | Average Annual Income |
---|---|---|
$276,096 | 07 | $39,442 |
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 | 00 | 03 | 01 | 02 | 00 | 01 | 07 |
Percentage of Loans | 0% | 42.86% | 14.29% | 28.57% | 0% | 14.29% | 100% |
Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Percentage of loans |
---|---|---|
Revolving Loans | 04 | 57.14% |
Partnership Loans | ||
Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee | 00 | 0% |
With interest buy-down only | 00 | 0% |
With loan guarantee only | 02 | 28.57% |
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee | 01 | 14.29% |
Total | 07 | 100% |
Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Dollar Value of Loans |
---|---|---|
Revolving Loans | 04 | $13,011 |
Partnership Loans | 03 | $79,280 |
Total | 07 | $92,291 |
Lowest | 2% |
---|---|
Highest | 4% |
Sum of Interest Rates | Number of Loans Made | Average Interest Rate |
---|---|---|
21 | 07 | 3% |
Interest Rate | Number of loans |
---|---|
0.0% to 2.0% | 04 |
2.1% to 4.0% | 03 |
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 | 07 |
Type of AT | Number of Devices Financed | Dollar Value of Loans |
---|---|---|
Vision | 01 | $454 |
Hearing | 00 | $0 |
Speech communication | 00 | $0 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 00 | $0 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 02 | $13,801 |
Daily living | 01 | $3,700 |
Environmental adaptations | 02 | $550 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 02 | $71,881 |
Computers and related | 02 | $1,905 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 00 | $0 |
Total | 10 | $92,291 |
Number Loans in default | 00 |
---|---|
Net loss for loans in default | $0 |
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? | 2 |
---|
How would you describe this state financing activity? | Other: |
---|
County of Residence | Individuals Served |
---|---|
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 1 |
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 0 |
C. Total Served | 1 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 1 |
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 | 0 | 0.00 |
Hearing | 0 | 0.00 |
Speech communication | 0 | 0.00 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 0 | 0.00 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 0 | 0.00 |
Daily living | 0 | 0.00 |
Environmental adaptations | 0 | 0.00 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 1 | 36014.00 |
Computers and related | 0 | 0.00 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 0 | 0.00 |
Total | 1 | 36014.00 |
How would you describe this state financing activity? | Last resort - Activity |
---|
County of Residence | Individuals Served |
---|---|
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 7 |
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 1 |
C. Total Served | 8 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 8 |
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 | 4 | 7250.00 |
Hearing | 0 | 0.00 |
Speech communication | 1 | 499.00 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 0 | 0.00 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 5 | 11739.00 |
Daily living | 0 | 0.00 |
Environmental adaptations | 1 | 588.00 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | 0.00 |
Computers and related | 0 | 0.00 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 0 | 0.00 |
Total | 11 | 20076.00 |
How many state financing activities that allow consumers to obtain AT at a reduced cost were included in your approved state plan? | 0 |
---|
Mr. Marshall is a 61-year-old man who reports that he has lived with Dyslexia for his entire life. He regularly gets mail from his family and reads scriptures from his bible with the assistance of the nurses at the facility where he lives. Mr. Marshall discovered LATAN while browsing the internet one day and was moved by the testimonials and accolades on the website. He called 211 who then referred him to LATAN. Upon calling LATAN, he was curious about what devices could help his situation. Staff provided additional information about LATAN and answered the questions he had about services and the availability of devices that may be able to assist him with reading. A device demonstration of numerous of OCR devices was scheduled with Mr. Marshall. Ultimately, Mr. Marshall selected the Orcam Reader and was interested in the AT Lease program to assist with acquisition. Today, Mr. Marshall is currently enrolled in the AT lease program and expresses his gratitude stating that he has never felt more independent. He plans to use the Orcam Reader to pursue his GED. “After I first called 211 and they referred me to y'all, I called LATAN. The first person I spoke with was Jay. I was really excited because all my questions were answered and I felt like God was showing me the way. I don't have to get people to help me read my mail anymore. I don't have to get the nurses to help me read my bible anymore or anything. It's really a blessing. I want to thank Jay and LATAN for everything they've done. It's just a blessing.”
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 01 | 01 | 09 | 11 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 02 | 02 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 01 | 01 | 02 |
4. Subtotal | 01 | 02 | 12 | 15 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 01 | 01 |
6. Subtotal | 01 | 02 | 13 | 16 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 01 | 02 | 13 | 16 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 92.31% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 16 | 100% |
Satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 16 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
Activity | Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity |
---|---|
A. Device Exchange | 04 |
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan | 125 |
C. Total | 129 |
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 | 129 |
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 | 01 | $50 | $0 | $50 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 02 | $3,738 | $0 | $3,738 |
Daily Living | 01 | $2,500 | $0 | $2,500 |
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 | 04 | $6,288 | $0 | $6,288 |
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 | 37 | $10,168 | $0 | $10,168 |
Hearing | 08 | $2,457 | $0 | $2,457 |
Speech Communication | 06 | $2,671 | $0 | $2,671 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 07 | $10,340 | $0 | $10,340 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 68 | $33,648 | $0 | $33,648 |
Daily Living | 54 | $8,305 | $0 | $8,305 |
Environmental Adaptations | 19 | $1,849 | $0 | $1,849 |
Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Computers and Related | 13 | $5,758 | $0 | $5,758 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Total | 212 | $75,196 | $0 | $75,196 |
Mr. Earl is a 96-Year-old man living with wet macular degeneration as well as acute hearing loss. His children discovered LATAN from a TV ad and called to inquire about devices and services that could help their father. The phone call to LATAN led to a device demonstration with Mr. Earl to explore vision and hearing devices. Following the device demonstration, Mr. Earl stated that he would need to take advantage of the AT Marketplace, LATAN’s reuse program to acquire the hearing device. He ultimately decided to proceed with hearing device first. Fortunately, the AT Marketplace did in fact have two hearing amplifiers (Williams Sound Pocket talker 2 & Williams Sound broadcast device) available. During a follow up call, Mr. Earl’s daughter was extremely satisfied with how well the devices made their lives easier. She exclaimed that he can hear what his doctors say and he can hear people on the phone when they call him now. She also said they no longer have to yell in his ear to get his attention. She continued that Mr. Earl regularly has family over and they can freely communicate with him again. Mr. Earl’s children plan to contact LATAN again later to possibly trial more vision devices for their father. Mr. Earl added, “I can hear what doctors say. I can hear people on the phone and when they are standing next to me.” “So many lives have been positively influenced by LATAN's great work. The Pocket talker allows me to hear what my doctors are telling me. My primary doctor was so impressed she took a picture of the device to show her patients. So many nurses have also written down the information to help their patients and family members. I can now have a social life because I can engage in conversations with friends and family. More people (even my pastors) are more
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 01 | 01 | 78 | 80 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 01 | 34 | 36 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 09 | 09 |
4. Subtotal | 02 | 02 | 121 | 125 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 04 | 04 |
6. Subtotal | 02 | 02 | 125 | 129 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 02 | 02 | 125 | 129 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 96.8% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 103 | 79.84% |
Satisfied | 26 | 20.16% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 129 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan | Number |
---|---|
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) | 39 |
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding | 07 |
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation | 01 |
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 03 |
Total | 50 |
Type of Individual or Entity | Number of Device Borrowers | ||
---|---|---|---|
Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
Individuals with Disabilities | 29 | 08 | 37 |
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 03 | 00 | 03 |
Representative of Education | 01 | 00 | 01 |
Representative of Employment | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 05 | 03 | 08 |
Representatives of Community Living | 01 | 00 | 01 |
Representatives of Technology | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 39 | 11 | 50 |
Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days | 35 |
---|
Type of AT Device | Number of Devices | ||
---|---|---|---|
Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
Vision | 18 | 04 | 22 |
Hearing | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Speech Communication | 06 | 02 | 08 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 03 | 00 | 03 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 15 | 07 | 22 |
Daily Living | 01 | 00 | 01 |
Environmental Adaptations | 04 | 00 | 04 |
Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Computers and Related | 12 | 05 | 17 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 59 | 18 | 77 |
65 year-old Gerald reported total disability, needing full assistance, due to critical illness myopathy. Gerald was hospitalized for approximately eight months due to complications from Covid-19. Medication caused severe loss of muscle mass and weakness. Gerald was able to use the Evolv Standing Frame during rehabilitation sessions in the hospital. Using the standing frame, Gerald was able to increase standing time and gain muscle mass. The standing frame helped with muscle control and balance. He is now able to use a walker inside the home. Gerald is now able to independently use the bathroom, shave and brush his teeth. Gerald has a goal to walk by Christmas, without a walker. “Thanks to the standing frame we were able to obtain through the Device Loan Program and the great group of therapist, we are confident that he will meet that goal.”
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 07 | 03 | 26 | 36 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 02 | 00 | 01 | 03 |
Subtotal | 09 | 03 | 27 | 39 |
Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Subtotal | 09 | 03 | 27 | 39 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 09 | 03 | 27 | 39 |
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 | 01 | 07 | 08 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 03 | 03 |
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 | 01 | 10 | 11 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 00 | 01 | 10 | 11 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 00 | 01 | 10 | 11 |
9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 46 | 92% |
Satisfied | 04 | 8% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 50 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
---|---|
Vision | 44 |
Hearing | 03 |
Speech Communication | 14 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 03 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 15 |
Daily Living | 08 |
Environmental Adaptations | 05 |
Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 |
Computers and Related | 11 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 |
Total # of Devices Demonstrated | 103 |
Type of Participant | Number of Participants in Device Demonstrations |
---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 96 |
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 62 |
Representatives of Education | 06 |
Representatives of Employment | 01 |
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 17 |
Representative of Community Living | 04 |
Representative of Technology | 00 |
Total | 186 |
Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
---|---|
Funding Source (non-AT program) | 02 |
Service Provider | 02 |
Vendor | 18 |
Repair Service | 00 |
Others | 00 |
Total | 22 |
Ms. Williams is a 51-year-old woman with severe vision loss due to complications of brain tumor resulting in blindness. She was referred to LATAN from a family member with low vision who successfully acquired a digital magnifier with assistance from LATAN. Ms. Williams indicated that the activity she most wanted assistance with performing was reading. While reading independently was her primary interest she also expressed concern about not able to navigate around her home since losing her vision. “LATAN was super helpful in providing the demonstrations and providing a place for where I could go and buy the devices they showed me. I was able to try the device out myself and after the demo I went and purchased one on my own from a resource LATAN provided. It was delivered in a week after the demo!” Ms. Williams said in a follow-up phone call that she uses the device every day and she is so thankful to LATAN for coming to her home and showing her technology that she didn’t even know existed. “I would definitely recommend LATAN and the devices they have. It’s helping me out a lot because I wasn't able to read for years. I used to love reading, now I’m able to again. Before LATAN, I would have to sit and just watch TV or have someone read out my mail or newspapers to me. Now with this device, I can practice with it and start reading again on my own. I would definitely recommend to anyone needing any type of help like this.”
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 10 | 12 | 69 | 91 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 01 | 01 | 09 | 11 |
Subtotal | 11 | 13 | 78 | 102 |
Have not made a decision | 01 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
Subtotal | 12 | 13 | 78 | 103 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 12 | 13 | 78 | 103 |
Performance on this measure | 91.67% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 170 | 91.4% |
Satisfied | 16 | 8.6% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total | 186 | |
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. | 02 | 03 | 94 | 99 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 01 | 39 | 41 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 01 | 10 | 11 |
4. Subtotal | 03 | 05 | 143 | 151 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 05 | 05 |
6. Subtotal | 03 | 05 | 148 | 156 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 03 | 05 | 148 | 156 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 80% | 89.86% | 89.74% |
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 | 17 | 15 | 95 | 127 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 03 | 01 | 10 | 14 |
Subtotal | 20 | 16 | 105 | 141 |
Have not made a decision | 01 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
Subtotal | 21 | 16 | 105 | 142 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 21 | 16 | 105 | 142 |
Performance on this measure | 95.24% | 100% | 100% | 99.3% |
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 | 02 |
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 02 |
Representatives of Education | 49 |
Representatives of Employment | 00 |
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 170 |
Representatives of Community Living | 04 |
Representatives of Technology | 00 |
Unable to Categorize | 00 |
TOTAL | 227 |
Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
---|---|---|---|
227 | 00 | 00 | 227 |
Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
---|---|
AT Products/Services | 25 |
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 00 |
Combination of any/all of the above | 154 |
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 43 |
Transition | 05 |
Total | 227 |
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
LATAN AT Solutions Specialist provided innovative training for an Allied health rep of LA Lighthouse for the Blind. The Representative was interested in learning of high-tech AT devices that would assist individuals whom already have acquired standard magnifiers and glasses. The topics covered were LATAN's programs and services, as well as demonstrations of digital magnifiers and electronic glasses for the blind. LATAN provided pamphlets of the key devices shown for the Lighthouse to give out at their facility. As a result, the Lighthouse for the Blind is now more aware of high-tech resources to provide to the individuals in need of low vision devices.
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
LATAN training and outreach at Greater New St. Luke Baptist Church in New Orleans to group of AT users of all ages, caregivers, and family members. Many of the AT users and families represented low-income and underserved populations. This event was a high-impact reaching more than 100 participants at a faith-based community.
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
A training was facilitated at the Neuromedical Center & Rehabilitation Hospital. The group requested training on AAC and other Communication Technology. The group of consisted of 15 Rehab Professionals (SLP, PT, OT). With interactive dialogue, the group had a lot of "how to" questions about devices, as well as LATAN services. Various AAC devices, including applicable software and other technologies such as accessibility features that increase communication. Additionally, therapists provided programmatic information of how to link individuals with LATAN services when transitioning home.
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
---|---|
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 00 |
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 43 |
No known outcome at this time | 00 |
Nonrespondent | 00 |
Total | 43 |
Performance Measure Percentage | 100% |
ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
Met/Not Met | Met |
Education | 14% |
---|---|
Employment | % |
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | % |
Community Living | 29% |
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 57% |
Total | 100% |
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
The AT user previously used a stander and a leg recovery system to assist with her spinal cord injury, but those devices were not giving her the circulation that her legs needed. LATAN assisted the individual with acquiring a Myocycle functional electrical stimulation bike. During delivery, LATAN staff trained the AT User's husband on the device mechanics as well as the devices manufacturer's warranty and user information. The AT user stated that the device was starting and stopping immediately after activation. The AT Solutions Specialist went to the AT User's home to trouble shoot issues and concluded that the AT user's PCA (personal care assistant) placed the shock pads in the wrong location and input the incorrect intensity. Staff solved the problem by replacing the shock pads into the correct position and correcting the settings. Thereafter, the PCA was properly trained on how the device operated.
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
After receiving an Optical Character Reading device to transition back to school to obtain a GED, during follow-up, the AT user explained that he was having technical problems with the device. The AT User stated that when he inserted his headphones, only one earbud would play. Staff inspected the device and brought replacement earbuds to test. Upon testing, it was concluded that the earbuds that were being used had a shortage in them. Staff assisted in the replacement.
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. In commemoration of National AT Awareness Day, LATAN's Technology for Life event was held in collaboration with the East Baton Rouge Parish Library (EBRPL) on April 14th, 2021. Prior to the onset of the pandemic, the EBRPL served 700 patrons, many of whom are AT users of all ages, each week. Unfortunately, the event was extremely hindered by torrential rains which impacted turnout. Nevertheless, the event continued with an AT exhibit of more than 20 devices and included a Financial Management Seminar and introduction to LATAN Alternative Financing Programs.
2.
Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
---|---|---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 162 | 53 | 215 |
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 45 | 09 | 54 |
Representative of Education | 03 | 00 | 03 |
Representative of Employment | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 18 | 02 | 20 |
Representative of Community Living | 07 | 01 | 08 |
Representative of Technology | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Unable to Categorize | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 235 | 65 | 300 |
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?
LATAN continues to be actively engaged with EMDAC (Emergency Medical, Disability and Aging Coalition) in coordination of Emergency Response services. In 2020, EMDAC, which comprised of five core members including, the Governor's Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP), the Governor's Office of Disability Affairs, LATAN, and Trach Mommas of LA, convened in early March to discuss immediate issues relative to COVID-19 and mandated, Stay at Home orders. When there is an emergency, EMDAC activates additional state agencies to better coordinate efforts. Those additional agencies include LA Rehabilitation Services, LA Department of Health (Office Aging and Adult Services, Office of Behavioral Health, Office of Citizens with Developmental Disabilities), Governor's Office of Elderly Affairs (includes the Areas Agencies on Aging, Councils on Aging and Aging and Disability Resource Centers), LA Department of Social Services, State Independent Living Centers, Disability Rights Louisiana, and a host of community- and a few faith-based organizations. During the height of the pandemic, EMDAC's focus was on meeting the immediate challenges faced by older adults and those living within care facilities who were being severely and disproportionately impacted by COVID, as well as the emotional toll on mental health related to social isolation. While challenges were discussed, the role of each stakeholder was to discuss solutions to social isolation, receive status updates from group homes, nursing facilities, and those receiving home health and need for continuous care...even though the workforce was highly impacted. LATAN provided training to the Governor's Office of Elderly Affairs' Ombudsman Program Coordinators, the Caddo ADRC and the Office of Citizens with Developmental Disabilities’ Support Coordinators under the same topic and focus area: the use of technology to combat social isolation and to give community-based health care workers access to the people they served while keeping everyone healthy and safe. LATAN’s training covered resources to access the internet (hotspots & tablets) and other communication devices that would support teletherapy, remote connections with family, as well as solutions that would allow nursing and other care facility residents anonymous access to contact their Ombudsman. Initially, no funding was available, but eventually, federal funding was made available to the agencies directly serving older adults. To compound the challenges created by the pandemic, Louisiana had three major hurricanes (Laura, Delta, and Zeta) within a two-month period. Currently activated and joined by FEMA and the American Red Cross, EMDAC slightly shifted gears to finds ways to safely manage evaluations among people who were displaced by Hurricane Laura. Without the use of congregate shelters, more than 11,000 individuals/families were sheltered in various hotels throughout New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The hotel placement made it extremely difficult for agencies to assess the healthcare needs among people evaluated and much less, the coordination efforts to meet those needs. Collaborating with the Red Cross, FEMA, EMDAC, and the Region 1 Department of Health and Office of Public Health to receive “orders” for replacement DME or AT loss or damaged in the storms, LATAN staff made deliveries to individuals and families with disabilities or aging for several months. Ultimately, each hotel had Red Cross Nurse who sent referrals directly to LATAN once those needs were identified. As FEMA transitioned people to more temporary housing and out of hotels, additional referrals were made to LATAN when a person with disability or older adult was identified. Incidentally, many people remained in their hotel rooms in need of care and/or AT/DME but too proud to ask. They were identified much later in the recovery process. LATAN received funding for emergency response from Americares and received generous donated equipment from several partner AT State Programs’ reuse inventories.
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.
Although LATAN has been in operation in Louisiana for 29 years, there are many state agencies and community-based organizations that still do not know about the AT program and it’s benefits. Given the number of years in operation, some institutional knowledge doesn’t necessarily transfer to new employees once people retire. The pandemic provided an opportunity to raise awareness of AT and LATAN among agencies serving the same population- Louisiana residents of all ages with disabilities or functional limitations. As resident of Louisiana, planning for weather emergencies is commonplace. Throughout the pandemic, the reality that there are hundreds of thousands of people who do not have access to the internet. Therefore, while more and more technologies become mainstream, there will be an access issue because those technologies can’t sustain without the internet and/or power. One of the devices available for loan at LATAN is the portable, solar-powered battery but no one wanted to take borrow it…even though they did not have electricity for weeks. Ultimately, LATAN learned that sometimes technology is scary and just because it’s available does not mean that it will readily be utilized. More training on and preparation with communication and life-sustaining technologies is needed – prior to the emergency.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Community Participation and Integration; Health; Aging; Other: Emergency Response ;
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
Reuse; Training; Information & 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? | 00 |
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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 | $8,820 | Reuse | True |
Private | $6,765 | State Financing | True |
Amount: $15,585 |
Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Mon Mar 07 2022 11:27:39 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)