National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

Illinois 2023

General Information

Statewide AT Program (Information to be listed in national State AT Program Directory)

State AT Program Title:
Illinois Assistive Technology Program
State AT Program Title:
State AT Program URL
www.iltech.org
Mailing Address:
701 N. Walnut Street
City:
Springfield
State:
Illinois
Zip Code:
62702
Program Email:
wgunther@iltech.org
Phone:
217-522-7985
TTY:
800-852-5110

Lead Agency

Agency Name:
Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services
Mailing Address:
100 S. Grand Avenue, East
City:
Springfield
State:
Illinois
Zip Code:
62704
Program URL:
http://www.dhs.state.il.us

Implementing Entity

Name of Implementing Agency:
Illinois Assistive Technology Program
Mailing Address:
701 N. Walnut Street
City
Springfield
State:
Illinois
Zip Code:
62702
Program URL:
http://www.iltech.org

Program Director and Other Contacts

Program Director for State AT Program (last, first):
Gunther, Wilhelmina
Title:
President/CEO
Phone:
217-522-7985
E-mail:
wgunther@iltech.org
Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):
McCoy, Sarah
Title:
Project Officer
Phone:
217-524-0695
E-mail:
sarah.m.mccoy@illinois.gov
Primary Contact at Implementing Agency (last, first) - If applicable:
Gunther, Wilhelmina
Title:
President/CEO
Phone:
217-522-7985
E-mail:
wgunther@iltech.org

Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director

Name (last, first):
Zinck, Jeannine
Title:
Data Manager
Phone:
217-522-7985
E-mail:
jzinck@iltech.org

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):
Patrick, Rahnee
Title:
Director
Phone:
217-557-0401
E-mail:
Rahnee.Patrick@illinois.gov

State Financing

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

Loan Applications
Area of Residence Total
Metro
RUCC 1-3
Non-Metro
RUCC 4-9
Approved Loan made 01 00 01
Approved Not made 03 00 03
Rejected 16 02 18
Total 20 02 22

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income: $36,288 Highest Income: $36,288

Average Income
Sum of Incomes Loans Made Average Annual Income
$36,288 01 $36,288

Number and Percentage of Loans Made to Applicants by Income Range
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 00 01 00 00 00 01
Percentage of Loans 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 0% 100%

3. Loan Type

Loan Type
Type of Loan Number of Loans Percentage of loans
Revolving Loans 01 100%
Partnership Loans
Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee 00 0%
With interest buy-down only 00 0%
With loan guarantee only 00 0%
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee 00 0%
Total 01 100%

Loan Type Summary
Type of Loan Number of Loans Dollar Value of Loans
Revolving Loans 01 $30,000
Partnership Loans 00 $0
Total 01 $30,000

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest 5%
Highest 5%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates Number of Loans Made Average Interest Rate
05 01 5%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0% 00
2.1% to 4.0% 00
4.1% to 6.0% 01
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 01

5. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed

Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed
Type of AT Number of Devices Financed Dollar Value of Loans
Vision 00 $0
Hearing 00 $0
Speech communication 00 $0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 00 $0
Mobility, seating and positioning 00 $0
Daily living 00 $0
Environmental adaptations 00 $0
Vehicle modification and transportation 01 $30,000
Computers and related 00 $0
Recreation, sports, and leisure 00 $0
Total 01 $30,000

6. Defaults

Defaults
Number Loans in default 00
Net loss for loans in default $0

B. State Financing Activities that provide consumers with resources and services that result in the acquisition of AT devices and services

1. Overview of Activities Performed

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? 4
Activity 1
How would you describe this state financing activity?Other: Tech Kitchen

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)25
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)6
C. Total Served31

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures31

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded
Value of
AT Provided
Vision 0$0
Hearing 0$0
Speech communication0$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning0$0
Daily living 220$3,725
Environmental adaptations0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 0$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total220$3,725

Activity 2
How would you describe this state financing activity?Other: Open Ended Loan (OEL)

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)495
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)66
C. Total Served561

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures561

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded
Value of
AT Provided
Vision 400$431,380
Hearing 9$3,445
Speech communication0$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 2$178
Mobility, seating and positioning4$1,791
Daily living 3$410
Environmental adaptations26$5,576
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 2106$752,755
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total2550$1,195,535

Activity 3
How would you describe this state financing activity?Other: ICC

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)389
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)145
C. Total Served534

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures534

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded
Value of
AT Provided
Vision 0$0
Hearing 0$0
Speech communication0$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning0$0
Daily living 0$0
Environmental adaptations0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 678$312,512
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total678$312,512

Activity 4
How would you describe this state financing activity?Other: Smart Home

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)31
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)13
C. Total Served44

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures44

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded
Value of
AT Provided
Vision 0$0
Hearing 0$0
Speech communication0$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning0$0
Daily living 251$18,518
Environmental adaptations0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 0$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total251$18,518



C. State Financing Activities that Allow Consumers to Obtain AT at Reduced Cost

1. Overview of Activities Performed

How many state financing activities that allow consumers to obtain AT at a reduced cost were included in your approved state plan? 1
Activity 1
How would you describe this state financing activity?AT Fabrication or AT Maker Program

2. Geographic Distribution and Number of Individuals Served

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)61
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)10
C. Total Served71

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures71

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber ProvidedTotal Estimated
Current Retail
Purchase Price
Total Price for
Which Devices
Were Sold
Savings
to Consumers
Vision 20$27$0$27
Hearing 0$0$0$0
Speech communication 3$0$0$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0$0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning 0$0$0$0
Daily living 70$476$0$476
Environmental adaptations 0$0$0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 9$0$0$0
Computers and related 4$20$0$20
Recreation, sports, and leisure 5$0$0$0
Total 111$523$0$523


D. Anecdote

Myshaun was born with a rare condition called Thrombocytopenia-absent radius (TAR) Syndrome. The absence of radial bones impacts his ability to use his hands safely and efficiently for activities of daily living. Myshaun was referred to the IATP Tech Kitchen program after visiting the IATP Demonstration Center and expressing his desire to become more independent in the kitchen as he starts college and looks forward to eventually living independently. The shortened length of Myshaun’s arms results in items held in his hands being close to his face. This proximity creates a dangerous situation in the kitchen, where sharp and hot tools are often used. Few adapted kitchen utensils are on the market to address this need. Unfortunately, extended kitchen tools are typically no longer than 16 inches, 6-12 inches short of what would allow safe access to a standard-height stove for Myshaun. Myshaun was also interested in learning about other tools that would make some tasks more accessible and developing alternative cooking techniques that would allow him to prepare his favorite foods. The Tech Kitchen worked with IATP Makers to design an adapted handle for a 16” spatula. With feedback from an IATP Occupational Therapist, Makers developed an angled loop handle that added about 14 inches of length and clipped directly onto the original utensil. Myshaun was successful in using the prototype handle at his first training. He was very excited to have a tool that allowed him to access the stove top safely and flip foods such as quesadillas, pancakes, and eggs. During this first training, Myshaun also found existing tools like the automatic jar opener, an adjustable height table, and a one-handed cutting board to be effective.

Myshaun in tech kitchen using the extended handle attached to a spatula flipping a quesadilla
Impact Area

Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 03 561 186 750
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 06 02 110 118
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 22 22
4. Subtotal 09 563 318 890
5. None of the above 00 00 54 54
6. Subtotal 09 563 372 944
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 298 298
8. Total 09 563 670 1,242
9. Performance on this measure 100% 100% 47.46%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 856 68.92%
Satisfied 75 6.04%
Satisfied somewhat 06 0.48%
Not at all satisfied 02 0.16%
Nonrespondent 303 24.4%
Total Surveyed 1,242
Response rate % 75.6%

G. Notes:

Reutilization

A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices

Activity Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity
A. Device Exchange 00
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan 1,939
C. Total 1,939

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 1,939

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance

B. Device Exchange Activities

Device Exchange
Type of AT Device Number of Devices Exchanged Total Estimated Current Purchase Price Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Exchanged Savings to Consumers
Vision 00 $0 $0 $0
Hearing 00 $0 $0 $0
Speech Communication 00 $0 $0 $0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00 $0 $0 $0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 00 $0 $0 $0
Daily Living 00 $0 $0 $0
Environmental Adaptations 00 $0 $0 $0
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 00 $0 $0 $0
Computers and Related 00 $0 $0 $0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00 $0 $0 $0
Total 00 $0 $0 $0

C. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassignment and/or Open Ended Loan Activities

Device Reassign/Repair/Refurbish and/or OEL
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 161 $284,306 $0 $284,306
Hearing 17 $4,344 $0 $4,344
Speech Communication 26 $103,440 $0 $103,440
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 14 $15,035 $0 $15,035
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 902 $286,572 $0 $286,572
Daily Living 820 $98,468 $0 $98,468
Environmental Adaptations 54 $27,156 $0 $27,156
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 01 $20 $0 $20
Computers and Related 53 $16,665 $0 $16,665
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 10 $470 $0 $470
Total 2,058 $836,476 $0 $836,476

D. Anecdote

Marla is a talented and dedicated artist. Born prematurely, Marla has been visually impaired since birth. She gradually lost all sight, including color and movement. Despite her sight loss, her remarkable tenacity and talent have allowed her to continue to create unique and beautiful works of art. It took Marla 2 ½ years to become proficient in braille and uses it daily. She has tried various methods of labeling including using orange transwrap and voice labelers, but nothing seemed to offer her the organization that she needed. A Braille label maker became available through the IATP Reuse Program and was provided to Marla for as long as it is useful to her. Marla said it was a life changer both for work and home. She uses the labels for all canned goods and spices in the kitchen. All shoes are labeled on the box and the 100 glazes that she uses for pottery are all neatly labeled. Marla said that she keeps the label maker on her desk at all times as she continues to find new items that need a label. The product has been a great asset and a safe and effective way to complete a task.

grayheaded women holding a handheld braille label maker
Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 08 01 1,579 1,588
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 06 01 82 89
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 03 01 258 262
4. Subtotal 17 03 1,919 1,939
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 17 03 1,919 1,939
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 17 03 1,919 1,939
9. Performance on this measure 100% 100% 100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 1,933 99.69%
Satisfied 05 0.26%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 01 0.05%
Total Surveyed 1,939
Response rate % 99.95%

G. Notes:

Device Loan

A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose

Loans By Purpose
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan Number
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) 1,453
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding 40
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation 62
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity 17
Total 1,572

B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower

LOANS BY TYPE OF BORROWER
Type of Individual or Entity Number of Device Borrowers
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Individuals with Disabilities 138 16 154
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 286 46 332
Representative of Education 771 21 792
Representative of Employment 03 01 04
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 13 07 20
Representatives of Community Living 240 27 267
Representatives of Technology 02 01 03
Total 1,453 119 1,572

C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans

Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days 35

D. Types of Devices Loaned

Types of Devices Loaned
Type of AT Device Number of Devices
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Vision 122 23 145
Hearing 56 15 71
Speech Communication 1,314 101 1,415
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 297 44 341
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 89 06 95
Daily Living 192 30 222
Environmental Adaptations 00 00 00
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 00 01 01
Computers and Related 101 35 136
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 07 03 10
Total 2,178 258 2,436

E. Anecdote

Larry is a retired gentleman with Parkinson’s disease and blindness. These conditions were affecting his quality of life, which, in turn, led to depression. Larry began working with Eve, an Occupational Therapist. Eve came into IATP searching for items that Larry could borrow to try for his daily living needs. After viewing available choices in the Demonstration Center, they were referred to IATP Device Loan. They borrowed a tilt switch and Powerlink from the Device Loan program to try in Larry’s home setting. They discovered Larry could use the tilt switch to play his favorite CDs by tilting his head. Being able to turn on his music independently has positively impacted Larry’s overall well-being.

an elderly man sitting in a recliner
Impact Area

F. Access Performance Measures

Access Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 938 16 257 1,211
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 117 03 33 153
Subtotal 1,055 19 290 1,364
Have not made a decision 03 00 00 03
Subtotal 1,058 19 290 1,367
Nonrespondent 50 01 35 86
Total 1,108 20 325 1,453
Performance on this measure 99.72% 100% 100%

G. Acquisition Performance Measures

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 20 10 47 77
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 05 01 12 18
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 04 00 04 08
4. Subtotal 29 11 63 103
5. None of the above 02 00 01 03
6. Subtotal 31 11 64 106
7. Nonrespondent 01 03 09 13
8. Total 32 14 73 119
9. Performance on this measure 93.55% 100% 98.44%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 1,541 98.03%
Satisfied 18 1.15%
Satisfied somewhat 06 0.38%
Not at all satisfied 01 0.06%
Nonrespondent 06 0.38%
Total Surveyed 1,572
Response rate % 99.62%

I. Notes:

Device Demonstration

A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type

Type of AT Device / Service Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services
Vision 181
Hearing 27
Speech Communication 320
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 20
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 69
Daily Living 305
Environmental Adaptations 03
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 04
Computers and Related 35
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 19
Total # of Device Demonstrations 983

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant Decision-Makers Other Participants Total
Individuals with Disabilities 715 159 874
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 145 353 498
Representatives of Education 102 399 501
Representatives of Employment 00 03 03
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 16 21 37
Representative of Community Living 04 06 10
Representative of Technology 01 16 17
Total 983 957 1,940

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program) 03
Service Provider 59
Vendor 324
Repair Service 00
Others 00
Total 386

D. Anecdote

Arlys learned about the Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) when a representative from IATP presented to the assisted living facility where she resides. During the presentation, Arlys became aware of the programs and services provided by IATP at no cost to individuals with disabilities and health conditions in Illinois. Arlys later arranged a tour of the IATP Demonstration Center for herself, her granddaughter, Madison, and Madison’s friend, Jess, an Occupational Therapy student. Arlys thought it would be beneficial for the younger generation to learn about the assistive technology devices that are available and increase their awareness and understanding of how devices can help individuals with disabilities. In the Demonstration Center’s Smart Home kitchen, Arlys discovered tools that would increase her access to items in the cupboards, including adapted shelving options, and improve her ability to open bottles and jars unassisted. IATP staff were happy they were able to acquaint Madison and Jess with the different types of assistive technology that are available, and that Arlys was able to find something that would help her continue to be as independent as possible in her home.

4 women standing in front of the upper kitchen cabinet demonstrating the pull out shelfing unit.
Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 324 35 572 931
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 01 01 06 08
Subtotal 325 36 578 939
Have not made a decision 09 01 33 43
Subtotal 334 37 611 982
Nonrespondent 00 00 01 01
Total 334 37 612 983
Performance on this measure 97.31% 97.3% 94.44%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 1,801 92.84%
Satisfied 131 6.75%
Satisfied somewhat 06 0.31%
Not at all satisfied 01 0.05%
Nonrespondent 01 0.05%
Total 1,940
Response rate % 99.95%

G. Notes:

Overall Performance Measures

Overall Acquisition Performance Measure

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 31 572 1,812 2,415
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 17 04 204 225
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 07 01 284 292
4. Subtotal 55 577 2,300 2,932
5. None of the above 02 00 55 57
6. Subtotal 57 577 2,355 2,989
7. Nonrespondent 01 03 307 311
8. Total 58 580 2,662 3,300
9. Performance on this measure 84.21% 99.83% 75.99% 80.32%
ACL Performance Measure 85%
Met/Not Met Not Met

Overall Access Performance Measure

Access Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 1,262 51 829 2,142
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 118 04 39 161
Subtotal 1,380 55 868 2,303
Have not made a decision 12 01 33 46
Subtotal 1,392 56 901 2,349
Nonrespondent 50 01 36 87
Total 1,442 57 937 2,436
Performance on this measure 99.14% 98.21% 96.23% 98%
ACL Performance Measure 90%
Met/Not Met Met

Overall Satisfaction Rating

Customer Rating of Services Percent ACL Target Met/Not Met
Highly satisfied and satisfied 99.66% 95% Met
Response Rate 95.35% 90% Met

Training

A. Training Participants: Number and Types of Participants; Geographical Distribution

Training by Participant Type
Type of Participant Number
Individuals with Disabilities 345
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 50
Representatives of Education 234
Representatives of Employment 78
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 22
Representatives of Community Living 142
Representatives of Technology 34
Unable to Categorize 00
TOTAL 905

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro Non Metro Unknown TOTAL
791 114 00 905

B. Training Topics

Trainings by Topic
Primary Topic of Training Participants
AT Products/Services 487
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice 13
Combination of any/all of the above 40
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access 285
Transition 80
Total 905

C. Description of Training Activities

Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:

UIC nursing students were provided hands-on training on assistive technology (AT) devices in IATP’s Demonstration Center so that when they transition into different nursing positions, they are aware of AT and Durable Medical Equipment that is available to assist patients and their care givers stay healthy and reduce injuries. During the training, students were challenged to utilize clinical reasoning skills from information gained through the training and apply it during a part of the training that involved a simulated patient profile and they had to determine appropriate/beneficial AT options to address their needs.

Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:

Susy Woods, IATP’s Policy and Education Liaison was asked to conduct a training for families, educators and community providers titled “Why Sex Education is Crucial Part of the Transition Plan.” The training addressed the ongoing problem of sexual abuse on people with disabilities specifically in community residential settings and on college campuses. Statistical information and specific signs for educators, community providers and families need to look for were provided with an emphasis on individuals that are nonverbal. Examples of goals that could be written into the transition plan were provided along with other resource materials. might be written to address these issues.

Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:

IATP conducted an Information Communication Technology (ICT) Accessibility training for the management, graphic design staff and support staff of the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) to ensure that the documents the agency was producing were accessibility. IDoA’s management was committed to having the graphic designers and numerous other key staff learn ICT Accessibility techniques to meet the state and federal laws. The designers were originally resistant, but management was committed to broadening their knowledge by requiring participation in future training.

D. IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure

IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received Number
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies 220
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented 65
No known outcome at this time 00
Nonrespondent 00
Total 285
Performance Measure Percentage 100%
ACL Target Percentage 70%
Met/Not Met Met

E. Notes:

Technical Assistance

A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance

Technical Assistance by Recipient Type
Education 00%
Employment 15%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 85%
Community Living 00%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) 00%
Total 100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:

IATP was asked to serve on the Advisory Committee of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency to help design and facilitate accessible services for AT/DME for individuals in the state affected by an emergency. IATP provided TA on state agencies responsibilities to ensuring full access to accessible services as well as provided information and support through its Reuse Program to help mitigate the needs of those that could be affected by a catastrophic event in the state.

Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:

IATP was asked by University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) School of Nursing if it would partner with them and design a training curriculum for the nursing students entering their clinical semester. IATP’s CEO met with the program staff for the nursing program and outlined the deliverables through technical assistance IATP could offer and the subsequent training sessions that IATP would provide. A total of 14 Nursing Students who are planning on working in both hospital and in home health settings learned and had hands-on opportunities with AT and DME that will assist individuals with disabilities and other health conditions as they transition from a medical setting to be their homes.

C. Notes:

Public Awareness

Public Awareness Activities

Public Awareness Narratives

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. IATP marketed its Open House through print, radio and television streams which enticed approximately 300 visitors from around the state to attend the Open House held on April 19, 2023. IATP officially moved to its new location in late 2022. The new facility allowed for the expansion of established programs and the introduction of new programs. Guests were able to tour the 51,000-square-foot building from 2 pm to 7 pm. Tours were provided by Assistive Technology (AT) experts and supporting staff.

2. IATP conducted twelve, 10-minute radio interviews featuring each of required Core Services of the AT Act and the other contractual programs offered by IATP on the Sam Madonia Show, a local radio show. The radio show listening audience it roughly14,000 individuals in Springfield and surrounding communities. The increase in the number of visitors after each interview was significant and IATP is reaching out to other radio stations in the state to see if the interviews could be replicated for their listening audiences.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients AT Device/
Service
AT Funding Total
Individuals with Disabilities 1,180 03 1,183
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 462 05 467
Representative of Education 1,043 02 1,045
Representative of Employment 06 01 07
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 55 00 55
Representative of Community Living 228 01 229
Representative of Technology 16 00 16
Unable to Categorize 00 00 00
Total 2,990 12 3,002

Referral Types:

During Fiscal Year 2023, IATP utilized a variety of approaches to increase referrals to its AT Act and other contracted services it provides. One such approach was requesting our lead agency provide us with the opportunity of conducting Zoom trainings on the new expanded programs and services offered through our AT Act contract for the staff in each of their divisions. By having the opportunity to remind them of our programs and introduce their staff to the new programs, IATP noticed a considerable spike in referrals. In addition, IATP conducted Zoom training for all CILS, Community Care Provider and Area Agency on Aging Organizations statewide. IATP also collaborated with one of the local hospitals and conducted a hybrid demonstration with a few medical doctors in the building and the others were back in the hospital. The number of referrals of patients transitioning out of the hospital increased significantly after that AT demonstration. Another strategy IATP implemented was to produce targeted print materials that were circulated in a variety of ways through our partnerships with the state agencies and other providers organizations.

Referral Sources:

Most of the referrals for I&A support and services are from local providers, self-referrals, and health care providers statewide. IATP has added a Communications Program which is comprised of three staff, a Chief Communications Officer, a Marketing Designer and Marketing Specialist. This program has created accessible materials, social media and radio and print advertisements which has increased our visibility and led to an increase in direct referrals for assistance. The highest categories of referrals received are Individuals with disabilities, friends, and family 11%; Educational Providers 51% and Health Care Providers at 9%.

Notes:

Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes

Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities

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

A. Coordination/Collaboration

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?

IATP’s CEO met the medical doctor responsible for all physicians’ training at a holiday event. As a result of the chance meeting IATP offered to collaborate with Memorial Medical Center and SIU to increase the knowledge and awareness of the doctors had of assistive technology and durable medical equipment through a virtual tour and demonstration. The demonstration was a hybrid of some doctors being in person and the others were linked virtually through telepresence. A total of 71 health providers participated in the tour and AT demonstration.

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.

The main objectives of the tour and AT/DME Demonstration were for acute therapy staff and doctors to have a general understanding of the value of AT and be familiar with IATP programs and services to share with patients and to refer patients in need of access to AT and durable medical equipment for short-and long-term use to address their acute needs and ensure greater success living in their homes. Both the AT Demonstration Center and the Reuse Program experienced significant increases in the number of referrals. A few doctors have begun contacting IATP directly when with their patient to see if there is some assistance the agency can provide the individual. IATP attributes this collaboration and the fact that we are closer to the medical district with greater involvement from therapists, doctors, and other medical staff.

3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?

Community Participation and Integration; Health; Aging; Aging and Disability Network / No Wrong Door;

4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?

Device Loan; Demonstration; Reuse; Training;

Overview of State Improvement Activities

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

B. State Improvements

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.

As a result of the ICT training IATP staff conducted for IDoA management, graphic designers and support staff, IDoA committed to expanding their knowledge and implementation of approaches to create accessible materials.


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.)

IDoA requested that IATP conduct at least two or more ICT trainings for 20+ staff in Springfield and Chicago during fiscal year 2024.


3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?

Technology (ICT accessibility and AT


Additional And Leveraged Funds

Did you have Additional and Leveraged Funding to Report? Yes

A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities

Fund Source Amount Use of Funds Data Reported
Public/State Agency$400,000ReuseTrue
Public/State Agency$809,777DemonstrationTrue
Public/State Agency$1,102,000State FinancingTrue
Public/State Agency$900,000DemonstrationTrue
Public/State Agency$350,000Device LoanTrue
Public/State Agency$1,731,187State FinancingTrue
Public/State Agency$300,000DemonstrationTrue
Amount: $5,592,964

For any leveraged funding reported above for which data could not be reported, please describe the extenuating circumstances that precluded data from being reported and efforts to remediate the situation in future reporting periods.


C. Describe any unique issues with your data in this section (e.g., the reason why you were unable to report the number of individuals served with additional or leveraged funds).


Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Tue Feb 13 2024 14:04:59 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)


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This FY23 State AT Program Annual Progress Report was exported from the National Assistive Technology Act Data System (NATADS). NATADS was developed with partial support from the Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance.