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 | 28 | 01 | 29 |
Approved Not made | 21 | 01 | 22 |
Rejected | 07 | 01 | 08 |
Total | 56 | 03 | 59 |
Lowest Income: | $9,360 | Highest Income: | $204,735 |
---|
Sum of Incomes | Loans Made | Average Annual Income |
---|---|---|
$1,856,790 | 29 | $64,027 |
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 | 01 | 06 | 04 | 07 | 03 | 08 | 29 |
Percentage of Loans | 3.45% | 20.69% | 13.79% | 24.14% | 10.34% | 27.59% | 100% |
Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Percentage of loans |
---|---|---|
Revolving Loans | 00 | 0% |
Partnership Loans | ||
Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee | 04 | 13.79% |
With interest buy-down only | 00 | 0% |
With loan guarantee only | 25 | 86.21% |
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee | 00 | 0% |
Total | 29 | 100% |
Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Dollar Value of Loans |
---|---|---|
Revolving Loans | 00 | $0 |
Partnership Loans | 29 | $592,051 |
Total | 29 | $592,051 |
Lowest | 3% |
---|---|
Highest | 8.99% |
Sum of Interest Rates | Number of Loans Made | Average Interest Rate |
---|---|---|
111 | 29 | 3.82620689655172% |
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% | 04 |
10.1%-12.0% | 00 |
12.1%-14.0% | 00 |
14.1% + | 00 |
Total | 29 |
Type of AT | Number of Devices Financed | Dollar Value of Loans |
---|---|---|
Vision | 00 | $0 |
Hearing | 03 | $10,040 |
Speech communication | 00 | $0 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 00 | $0 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 01 | $8,079 |
Daily living | 00 | $0 |
Environmental adaptations | 08 | $43,370 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 15 | $522,956 |
Computers and related | 03 | $7,606 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 00 | $0 |
Total | 30 | $592,051 |
Number Loans in default | 02 |
---|---|
Net loss for loans in default | $29,807 |
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) | 7 |
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 0 |
C. Total Served | 7 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 7 |
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 | 2 | $310 |
Hearing | 4 | $660 |
Speech communication | 1 | $4,000 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 0 | $0 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 0 | $0 |
Daily living | 0 | $0 |
Environmental adaptations | 0 | $0 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | $0 |
Computers and related | 0 | $0 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 0 | $0 |
Total | 7 | $4,970 |
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) | 118 |
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 6 |
C. Total Served | 124 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 73 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 51 |
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 | 38 | $30,811 | $26,974 | $3,837 |
Hearing | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Speech communication | 559 | $95,598 | $84,273 | $11,325 |
Learning, cognition, and developmental | 148 | $25,070 | $21,744 | $3,326 |
Mobility, seating and positioning | 9 | $14,320 | $12,534 | $1,786 |
Daily living | 55 | $8,561 | $7,111 | $1,450 |
Environmental adaptations | 146 | $20,050 | $18,261 | $1,789 |
Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Computers and related | 91 | $16,344 | $14,949 | $1,395 |
Recreation, sports, and leisure | 88 | $13,487 | $12,482 | $1,005 |
Total | 1134 | $224,241 | $198,328 | $25,913 |
A Howard County family wanted to get the benefit of standing for their young adult daughter to help her bone density and give her a different view on the world. They identified a stander that would meet her needs then approached the cooperative buying program to see if it could save them any money, as the cost of the stander was nearly $5,000. AT Discount Sales was able to save them $600. After using the stander for a while they realized that they needed further help in adjusting it so that their daughter would stand up straighter. AT Discount Sales staff introduced them to a physical therapist and luckily within one visit she was able to make the changes needed and their daughter now enjoys standing on a daily basis.
Mr. H reached out to the ATLP when his previous adapted vehicle had become in-operable. He received a $20,000.00 loan through the ATLP in September 2022, to apply to the purchase of an adapted vehicle. Mr. H has Cerebral Palsy and relies on an adapted vehicle to get to and from work. In addition to his full time job, he owns his own consulting business and is an active community leader. The adapted vehicle allows him to participate in community events, get to work, and run his business. Mr. H's passion to support others with disabilities, along with his successful experience with the ATLP, led him to inquire about a future Board Member position with ATLP.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 02 | 27 | 56 | 85 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
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 | 02 | 27 | 58 | 87 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 02 | 27 | 58 | 87 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 02 | 27 | 58 | 87 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 132 | 82.5% |
Satisfied | 28 | 17.5% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 160 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
MDTAP has phased out its contracted work with the Telecommunications Distribution Program (TAM) now that TAM has moved under the same state agency as MDTAP. Both programs work collaboratively to share access to local equipment libraries and MDTAP has provided consultation as TAM has internally restructured to provide all telecommunications assessments and activities in-house. This phase-out of contracted services to TAM has resulted in an FY22 decrease of state financing numbers in Section B. The data currently reflected in FY22 State Financing is more consistent with what we anticipate future state financing data to look like.
Activity | Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity |
---|---|
A. Device Exchange | 02 |
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan | 334 |
C. Total | 336 |
Performance Measure | |
---|---|
D. 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 |
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 336 |
If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance
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 | 01 | $2,800 | $0 | $2,800 |
Environmental Adaptations | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 01 | $20,000 | $0 | $20,000 |
Computers and Related | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Total | 02 | $22,800 | $0 | $22,800 |
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 | 07 | $12,485 | $0 | $12,485 |
Hearing | 01 | $160 | $0 | $160 |
Speech Communication | 29 | $47,890 | $0 | $47,890 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 16 | $13,050 | $0 | $13,050 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 471 | $798,981 | $0 | $798,981 |
Daily Living | 17 | $40,100 | $0 | $40,100 |
Environmental Adaptations | 01 | $250 | $0 | $250 |
Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 01 | $4,500 | $0 | $4,500 |
Computers and Related | 07 | $4,060 | $0 | $4,060 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 02 | $400 | $0 | $400 |
Total | 552 | $921,876 | $0 | $921,876 |
Mrs. M requested a CCTV for her husband C.M., whose vision is failing. His CCTV was over 16 years old and not working well. She contacted MATR (the Maryland High Tech Assistive Technology Reuse Program) looking for a replacement. They were otherwise unable to afford a new one and had few options. MATR takes in gently used AT, sanitizes & repairs the items when needed, and provides the equipment back out, for free, to those who cannot afford to purchase equipment. Mr. M. was able to acquire a Clearview+ CCTV for free through MATR, saving the family $2,945.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 08 | 03 | 320 | 331 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 00 | 01 | 02 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 02 | 00 | 01 | 03 |
4. Subtotal | 11 | 03 | 322 | 336 |
5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
6. Subtotal | 11 | 03 | 322 | 336 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 11 | 03 | 322 | 336 |
9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 336 | 100% |
Satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 336 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
MDTAP runs both the high-tech AT reuse center and an equipment exchange online site for the facilitation of gently used AT. In addition, the program maintains contracts with two pediatric equipment reuse programs in the state focused on providing expanded access to AT & DME to children and young adults with a variety of disabilities. MDTAP has also established a strong partnership with the MD Department Aging (MDoA), which runs the statewide DME reuse program, and has worked closely with their leadership to have two AT-specific questions integrated into the MDoA DME application to ensure appropriate referrals for anyone receiving DME through the state.
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan | Number |
---|---|
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) | 143 |
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 | 09 |
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 03 |
Total | 162 |
Type of Individual or Entity | Number of Device Borrowers | ||
---|---|---|---|
Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
Individuals with Disabilities | 63 | 14 | 77 |
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 35 | 00 | 35 |
Representative of Education | 07 | 02 | 09 |
Representative of Employment | 01 | 01 | 02 |
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 20 | 01 | 21 |
Representatives of Community Living | 09 | 00 | 09 |
Representatives of Technology | 08 | 01 | 09 |
Total | 143 | 19 | 162 |
Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days | 30 |
---|
Type of AT Device | Number of Devices | ||
---|---|---|---|
Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
Vision | 86 | 08 | 94 |
Hearing | 11 | 01 | 12 |
Speech Communication | 65 | 04 | 69 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 14 | 00 | 14 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 04 | 00 | 04 |
Daily Living | 29 | 00 | 29 |
Environmental Adaptations | 26 | 11 | 37 |
Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 02 | 00 | 02 |
Computers and Related | 41 | 00 | 41 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 22 | 00 | 22 |
Total | 300 | 24 | 324 |
Dustin C. (who has Muscular Dystrophy) came to MDTAP wanting to explore adaptive gaming solutions. He borrowed the Xbox adaptive controller and switch pack. When Dustin first came to MDTAP, our AT Clinician was able to demonstrate the use of the gaming equipment, and was even able to capture a short video of Dustin gaming and using the equipment in our Library. From there, Dustin was able to borrow the equipment for home use and was able to independently game for the first time in 2 years. Without the equipment demonstration and support from MDTAP's AT Clinician, Dustin would not have had a good understanding of the most appropriate types of adapted gaming equipment to support his needs.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 32 | 19 | 69 | 120 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 02 | 01 | 14 | 17 |
Subtotal | 34 | 20 | 83 | 137 |
Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 06 | 06 |
Subtotal | 34 | 20 | 89 | 143 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 34 | 20 | 89 | 143 |
Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 93.26% |
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 | 08 | 08 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 03 | 01 | 01 | 05 |
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 | 03 | 01 | 09 | 13 |
5. None of the above | 01 | 02 | 03 | 06 |
6. Subtotal | 04 | 03 | 12 | 19 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 04 | 03 | 12 | 19 |
9. Performance on this measure | 75% | 33.33% | 75% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 157 | 96.91% |
Satisfied | 05 | 3.09% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total Surveyed | 162 | |
Response rate % | 100% |
Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
---|---|
Vision | 64 |
Hearing | 07 |
Speech Communication | 33 |
Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 08 |
Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 06 |
Daily Living | 10 |
Environmental Adaptations | 08 |
Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 02 |
Computers and Related | 19 |
Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 06 |
Total # of Device Demonstrations | 163 |
Type of Participant | Decision-Makers | Other Participants | Total |
---|---|---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 81 | 11 | 92 |
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 46 | 29 | 75 |
Representatives of Education | 05 | 01 | 06 |
Representatives of Employment | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 13 | 04 | 17 |
Representative of Community Living | 12 | 05 | 17 |
Representative of Technology | 06 | 04 | 10 |
Total | 163 | 54 | 217 |
Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
---|---|
Funding Source (non-AT program) | 01 |
Service Provider | 06 |
Vendor | 03 |
Repair Service | 00 |
Others | 00 |
Total | 10 |
MDTAP was contacted by Ken R (assistant to Maryland Senator Benjamin Cardin), who was experiencing pain in his upper extremities when typing for extended periods of time. The pain he was experiencing while using the computer (sending emails, typing documents, etc.) was making it difficult for him to complete his work with ease. MDTAP's AT Clinician, James Whitney, was able to meet with Ken on two separate occasions to demonstrate both speech recognition and speech dictation technology available in his laptop operating system. James was able to sit down with him and show him the accessibility features on Windows devices and recommend a headset to use with the dictation program. After this demonstration, Ken was better suited to utilize the access features in his operating system and more easily complete his work.
Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 33 | 13 | 92 | 138 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 00 | 01 | 02 | 03 |
Subtotal | 33 | 14 | 94 | 141 |
Have not made a decision | 06 | 00 | 16 | 22 |
Subtotal | 39 | 14 | 110 | 163 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 39 | 14 | 110 | 163 |
Performance on this measure | 84.62% | 100% | 85.45% |
Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
---|---|---|
Highly satisfied | 201 | 92.63% |
Satisfied | 16 | 7.37% |
Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
Total | 217 | |
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. | 10 | 30 | 384 | 424 |
2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 04 | 01 | 02 | 07 |
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 02 | 00 | 03 | 05 |
4. Subtotal | 16 | 31 | 389 | 436 |
5. None of the above | 01 | 02 | 03 | 06 |
6. Subtotal | 17 | 33 | 392 | 442 |
7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
8. Total | 17 | 33 | 392 | 442 |
9. Performance on this measure | 82.35% | 93.94% | 98.47% | 97.51% |
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 | 65 | 32 | 161 | 258 |
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 02 | 02 | 16 | 20 |
Subtotal | 67 | 34 | 177 | 278 |
Have not made a decision | 06 | 00 | 22 | 28 |
Subtotal | 73 | 34 | 199 | 306 |
Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 73 | 34 | 199 | 306 |
Performance on this measure | 91.78% | 100% | 88.94% | 90.85% |
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 | 54 |
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 55 |
Representatives of Education | 94 |
Representatives of Employment | 148 |
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 126 |
Representatives of Community Living | 56 |
Representatives of Technology | 118 |
Unable to Categorize | 215 |
TOTAL | 866 |
Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
---|---|---|---|
807 | 57 | 02 | 866 |
Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
---|---|
AT Products/Services | 226 |
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 00 |
Combination of any/all of the above | 62 |
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 552 |
Transition | 26 |
Total | 866 |
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
This training was a Zoom webinar for the Baltimore County Department of Aging. The training was put together to offer providers & caregivers an introduction to assistive technologies that can be utilized to reduce caregiver strain and introduce new devices on the market. The training began with an overview of MDTAP programs & services, the AT library, and then went on to describe different categories of AT for caregivers including: Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS), Medication Management devices, Blind / Low Vision (magnification) devices, Hearing amplification devices (assistive listening devices (ALDs)), ADL aids (including dressing, bathing, self-feeding, toileting, etc. ), and different home modifications (door knob, light fixtures, smart home devices, portable ramps, non-slip surfaces, grab bars, etc.). Each device featured during the training was complete with a link to a vendor for purchase within the slidedeck, as well as price points for each device, so the viewer had information on each device’s overall use but also the information on where to purchase it.
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
One MDTAP staff member, who is an internationally certified assistive technology professional, provided this training. The audience was staff at Linwood, a Maryland DDA (Developmental Disabilities Administration) agency serving adults with I/DD. Most of the clients already have iPada, but staff was unsure how to best utilize them in support of their clients. The training included various types of assistive technology, with a focus on apps to support the clients’ transition into supported employment. The impact/positive result was that Linwood staff were made aware of many apps including scheduling, task analysis, and AAC, that would aid in their clients to be able to successfully transition into supported employment.
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
The IT Accessibility Initiative team conducted a half-day training session entitled the "Accessibility Education Project" on April 26, 2022. This session included 56 attendees from across Maryland state agencies. Participants were provided an overview of the state’s primary accessibility law (Maryland Non-Visual Access Clause) and how it affects the work they do for Marylanders every day. They were also provided with direct instruction and step-by-step interactive examples so they could better understand where and how to incorporate accessibility into their respective work processes. Attendees learned the technical standards and associated techniques to aid with improving the accessibility of their agency's digital footprint.
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
---|---|
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 180 |
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 176 |
No known outcome at this time | 177 |
Nonrespondent | 19 |
Total | 552 |
Performance Measure Percentage | 64.5% |
ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
Met/Not Met | Not Met |
Education | 23% |
---|---|
Employment | 07% |
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 32% |
Community Living | 35% |
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 03% |
Total | 100% |
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
MDTAP staff provided consultation to the Maryland State Department of Labor (DOL) on improving AT access and awareness at the DOL's 27 American Job Centers (AJCs) across the state. This included supporting DOL staff in identifying AT at each center, finding instructional videos that supported how-to-use the AT, developing QR codes for the devices that align with the appropriate instructional videos, and providing follow support to DOL staff and the AJCs as they implemented the use of QR codes & videos to better support staff and consumers needing help with utilizing the AT on site.
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
Maryland AT Program created a 3-part webinar series for the MD Department of Disabilities Caregiver Collaborative. The focus of the webinars were on AT to Support Caregivers as they provide services to keep their loved ones with disabilities at home, as opposed to being placed in nursing facilities. The funding for this project was provided through the Center for Healthcare Strategies, and was facilitated through the Department of Disabilities. Each of the webinar episodes covered a different topic, including: Remote supports, monitoring, and Environmental Control Units; Health Management, including telehealth and medication management; and Independent Living Aids. These webinars were pre-recorded and have been made available on the MDTAP YouTube channel as well as on the Maryland Commission on Caregiving website.
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. On 9.27.22, MDTAP hosted an Accessible Gaming Night at the main headquarters for the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS). This event was geared toward building awareness of adapted & inclusive gaming systems and included participation from many students within the DORS program, as well attendees from outside programs and schools. We had 35 gamers with a range of disabilities from physical, developmental and intellectual and of varying age ranges. Many of these gamers were young adults who also had the opportunity to meet with our AT Clinicians on staff and learn about ways in which they could borrow equipment in the future. After the event, two of the students who participated in the Accessible Gaming night stopped by the MDTAP office (these were students housed in the DORS dorms) to ask more questions and to let us know how much they enjoyed the opportunity to get together with their peers and game.
2. MDTAP's AT Clinician provided a presentation during the statewide Maryland Rehabilitation Conference on 11.18.21 with a focus on AT in the Workplace. This session covered a deep dive into legislation, legal precedent, and AT to support a variety of needs including ergonomics, low vision, deaf & hard of hearing, cognition, memory & organization, and more. The presentation included links to devices, price points, and information on funding options. There were 62 professionals in attendance during the session.
Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
---|---|---|---|
Individuals with Disabilities | 137 | 211 | 348 |
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 127 | 67 | 194 |
Representative of Education | 78 | 137 | 215 |
Representative of Employment | 16 | 52 | 68 |
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 56 | 10 | 66 |
Representative of Community Living | 99 | 36 | 135 |
Representative of Technology | 12 | 00 | 12 |
Unable to Categorize | 00 | 00 | 00 |
Total | 525 | 513 | 1,038 |
In FY2022, MDTAP made a concerted effort to build more AT awareness amongst other state disability agencies, programs, and providers through increased public awareness activities. During FY22, we hosted two (2) out of our three scheduled (3) Regional, Virtual AT Awareness Days, held in collaboration with local Centers for Independent Living, conducting community outreach in the more rural regions of Maryland and providing 1/2 day presentations on a wide variety of available AT & disability services in these areas.
Although most of our referrals are unknown, we have noted that during FY22, of the documented referral sources, the majority are from previous customers and disability service providers. Because we work closely with many service providers and disability-related organizations, these referrals are consistent with what we have seen - a surge of inquiries into MDTAP directly after presentations to these providers and their constituents.
In a deep dive of our I&A data from FY21, we discovered that the AT Financial Loan Program was conducting a great deal of information & assistance to consumers and making referrals to both our general AT services as well as other programs across the state. However, this data was not being captured within our data tracking system. As we began to track this information in a more streamlined manner, we can see that approximately 50% of the calls into our program are directly related to financing needs, and these are now more accurately reflected in the data.
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?
Over the past year, MDTAP has worked closely with AbleGamers, a nonprofit focused on expanding access to accessible gaming for people with disabilities. AbleGamers had been donated, by Microsoft, hundreds of new AT switches including the Big Red, the Microlight, the Jelly Bean, and Specs. AbleGamers reached out to MDTAP to request help in donating these switches to organizations, schools, and individuals for the purposes of increasing access to computers, games, communication devices, and toys. In December 2021, MDTAP received nearly 600 boxed switches, and conducted extensive outreach and conducted a coordinated effort to identify recipients, catalog requests, and distribute these across the state.
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.
As a result, we 557 switches/devices were distributed to approximately 140 recipients, many of which were school systems, providers, and individual families. We conducted a follow-up survey in June to all 140 recipients and received 13 responses. Of those responses, the vast majority noted that they used the device(s) with clients and students, primarily for communication and toy access. One educator from Talbot County also noted that the switches provided first-time access to a student who previously was unable to play video games. Although we don't anticipate replicating this activity in the future, we believe that getting these switches into the hands of schools, providers, families, and organizations helped to expand access for individuals with disabilities in Maryland.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Education; Community Participation and Integration; Recreation / Leisure; Transition(school to work or congregate care to community);
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
Reuse; Public Awareness;
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? | 02 |
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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.
MDTAP has provided extensive support to the MD Department of Disabilities Emergency Preparedness Program and the MD Department of Human Services to expand and improve the state's Emergency Deployment Assistive Technology Toolkits. These toolkits, nearly 25 of them, have been utilized to provide accommodations at emergency response sites across the state, from mass vaccination and COVID testing sites, to emergency shelters during states of emergency. During FY22, MDTAP evaluated each toolkit, created customized instructional videos and corresponding QR codes for each AT device included, facilitated repairs & upgrades, installed air tags for higher cost devices within each kit, and updated the operations manual to include more information on each of the devices.
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 updates to these kits ensure that the state is fully prepared to support shelter and emergency response professionals as they implement the toolkits and make them available to constituents with disabilities during a variety of emergency deployments. For more information on distribution, emergency toolkit manual, or other questions, contact Cecilia Warren, Director, Emergency Preparedness Policy Maryland Department of Disabilities, cecilia.warren@maryland.gov.
3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?
Community Living
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 MDTAP IT Access Initiative Team created the Statewide GIS Mapping guidelines for accessibility. After providing a training session on web content accessibility, the GIS office, part of the State Department of Information Technology (DoIT), asked the ITAI team to develop a set of accessibility guidelines to implement as policy for creating new mapping content. These guidelines are structured to be specific to digital mapping technologies and to be used as standards across all state agencies.
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.)
These written guidelines will create a standard for accessibility when any State of Maryland agency creates a mapping system that would be utilized for the public, such as a map that indicates where mass vaccination or Covid testing sites are operating. By ensuring a baseline for accessibility, state agencies can be confident that the maps produced are in line with state and federal accessibility laws. For additional information on these guidelines, please contact Stephen Polacek, IT Accessibility Program Specialist, stephen.polacek@maryland.gov.
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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Federal | $26,164 | Public Awareness, I&A | True |
Public/State Agency | $5,000 | Device Loan | True |
Public/State Agency | $5,000 | Demonstration | True |
Amount: $36,164 |
B. Public Health Workforce Grant Award |
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All Section 4 AT Act grantees were awarded $80,000.00 in supplimental Public Health Workforce grant funding to increase the full-time equivalent (FTE) of staff withing the disability and aging network for public health professionals. Please document the status of these funds below. |
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Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Tue Feb 14 2023 16:31:28 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)