National Assistive Technology Act Data System
Annual Progress Report - Full Report
South Dakota 2023
General Information
Statewide AT Program (Information to be listed in national State AT Program Directory)
Lead Agency
Implementing Entity
Program Director and Other Contacts
Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director
Certifying Representative
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 |
| Area of Residence | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Metro RUCC 1-3 |
Non-Metro RUCC 4-9 |
||
| Approved Loan made | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Approved Not made | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Rejected | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 00 | 00 | 00 |
2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made
| Lowest Income: | $0 | Highest Income: | $0 |
|---|
| Sum of Incomes | Loans Made | Average Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | 00 | $0 |
| 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 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Percentage of Loans | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 100% |
3. Loan Type
| Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Percentage of loans |
|---|---|---|
| Revolving Loans | 00 | 0% |
| 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 | 00 | 100% |
| Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Dollar Value of Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Revolving Loans | 00 | $0 |
| Partnership Loans | 00 | $0 |
| Total | 00 | $0 |
4. Interest Rates
| Lowest | 5% |
|---|---|
| Highest | 5% |
| Sum of Interest Rates | Number of Loans Made | Average Interest Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 00 | 00 | 0% |
| Interest Rate | Number of loans |
|---|---|
| 0.0% to 2.0% | 00 |
| 2.1% to 4.0% | 00 |
| 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 | 00 |
5. 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 | 00 | $0 |
| Computers and related | 00 | $0 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 00 | $0 |
| Total | 00 | $0 |
6. 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? | 1 |
|---|
Activity 1
| How would you describe this state financing activity? | Lease-To-Own program |
|---|
2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected
| County of Residence | Individuals Served |
|---|---|
| A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 158 |
| B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 50 |
| C. Total Served | 208 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
| E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 208 |
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 / Service | Number of Devices Funded | Value of AT Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Vision | 206 | $780,005 |
| Hearing | 0 | $0 |
| Speech communication | 1 | $400 |
| 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 | 1 | $45 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 0 | $0 |
| Total | 208 | $780,450 |
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? | 0 |
|---|
D. Anecdote
A woman and her son visited, expressing interest in the Iris Vision. Despite demonstrating its features, she seemed uninterested in advanced technology. Subsequently, I showcased several video magnifiers, but she desired something simpler. Handheld magnifiers caught her interest, although she mentioned having some at home. I presented various handheld video magnifiers, and although she liked the pebble, she was uncertain about it. To address her concerns, I informed her about our loan program for a trial period. Before leaving, I demonstrated the Acrobat to her son, who found it to be a great option for her. Ultimately, the challenge was finding a device she would be comfortable using.
I met with RH to help increase his independence, particularly concerning reading. RH enjoys reading articles by Rush Limbaugh. The author demonstrated various assistive devices, including video magnifiers and the Davinci Pro. During the demonstration, it was mentioned that RH and his family did not find smaller video magnifiers suitable. Instead, they identified the compact 10 as a potentially effective solution due to its full-page and OCR (optical character recognition) modes. The author also attempted to demonstrate wearable glasses from Eschenbach, but RH struggled to read with them. Despite some difficulty with the Davinci Pro, the OCR feature received a positive response from RH. Ultimately, based on the opinions of RH and his family, the Davinci Pro with the OCR feature is considered the best fit for RH. It is suggested that with time and practice, RH may be able to reteach his eyes to focus and read again. RH's son expresses a commitment to work with him daily once the Davinci Pro arrives.
E. 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. | 01 | 01 | 206 | 208 |
| 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 | 00 | 00 |
| 4. Subtotal | 01 | 01 | 206 | 208 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 01 | 01 | 206 | 208 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 01 | 01 | 206 | 208 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 141 | 67.79% |
| Satisfied | 25 | 12.02% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 42 | 20.19% |
| Total Surveyed | 208 | |
| Response rate % | 79.81% |
G. Notes:
Reutilization
A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices
| Activity | Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity |
|---|---|
| A. Device Exchange | 02 |
| B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan | 17 |
| C. Total | 19 |
| 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 | 19 |
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
| 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 | 01 | $2,000 | $0 | $2,000 |
| Hearing | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Speech Communication | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 01 | $99 | $0 | $99 |
| Daily Living | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Computers and Related | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Total | 02 | $2,099 | $0 | $2,099 |
C. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassignment and/or Open Ended Loan Activities
| 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 | 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 | 17 | $39,740 | $1,842 | $37,898 |
| 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 | 17 | $39,740 | $1,842 | $37,898 |
D. Anecdote
We reutilized 19 devices which saved people approximately $39,970 for the last fiscal year. The program was funded by a grant through the Department of Social Services and the DME providers slowly stopped using this resource as much as expected so they shut the program down at the end of May 2023. We will continue doing reuse internally at a smaller scale without the grant and the facility.
E. 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. | 00 | 00 | 08 | 08 |
| 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 | 00 | 00 |
| 4. Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 08 | 08 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 08 | 08 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 11 | 11 |
| 8. Total | 00 | 00 | 19 | 19 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | NaN% | 42.11% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 06 | 31.58% |
| Satisfied | 02 | 10.53% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 11 | 57.89% |
| Total Surveyed | 19 | |
| Response rate % | 42.11% |
G. Notes:
The program no longer exists within DakotaLink's scope of business.
Device Loan
A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose
| Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan | Number |
|---|---|
| Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) | 37 |
| Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding | 05 |
| Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation | 00 |
| Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 00 |
| Total | 42 |
B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower
| Type of Individual or Entity | Number of Device Borrowers | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
| Individuals with Disabilities | 37 | 00 | 37 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 00 | 04 | 04 |
| Representative of Education | 00 | 01 | 01 |
| Representative of Employment | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representatives of Technology | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 37 | 05 | 42 |
C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans
| Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days | 30 |
|---|
D. Types of Devices Loaned
| Type of AT Device | Number of Devices | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
| Vision | 15 | 02 | 17 |
| Hearing | 01 | 00 | 01 |
| Speech Communication | 09 | 02 | 11 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 03 | 01 | 04 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 03 | 00 | 03 |
| Daily Living | 03 | 00 | 03 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Computers and Related | 03 | 00 | 03 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 37 | 05 | 42 |
E. Anecdote
A college student with a reading disability wanted to be independent in her reading. She had always dreamed of owning an iPad to increase her independence, but her budget was tight, and she couldn't justify the expense. She contacted DakotaLink and was offered to lend her an iPad with Reading Software as well as Voice Over for a few weeks. She received it and some initial training over the phone to get her started. Grateful and excited, she accepted the generous offer. With the borrowed iPad in hand, she dove headfirst into reading assignments. The iPad's Voice Over and TextHelp’s Read & Write opened up a world of possibilities she had never experienced before. As the weeks passed, she flourished in her reading assignments. Eventually, it was time to return the iPad to DakotaLink. She did so with a mixture of gratitude and reluctance, as she had grown attached to the device and the independent freedom it had provided. DakotaLink, seeing the impact it had on her reading, helped her get in touch with the Department of Rehabilitation Services to purchase one of her own. She went on to complete her school year with more independence than she has ever had with regard to reading. The loan of the iPad not only enriched her independence but also gave her confidence in utilizing this device for the remainder of her college career.
F. Access Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 20 | 03 | 04 | 27 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 05 | 00 | 00 | 05 |
| Subtotal | 25 | 03 | 04 | 32 |
| Have not made a decision | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 25 | 03 | 04 | 32 |
| Nonrespondent | 05 | 00 | 00 | 05 |
| Total | 30 | 03 | 04 | 37 |
| Performance on this measure | 100% | 100% | 100% | |
G. 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. | 04 | 00 | 00 | 04 |
| 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. | 01 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| 4. Subtotal | 05 | 00 | 00 | 05 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 05 | 00 | 00 | 05 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 05 | 00 | 00 | 05 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 100% | NaN% | NaN% | |
H. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 39 | 92.86% |
| Satisfied | 03 | 7.14% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total Surveyed | 42 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
I. Notes:
We usually get great survey responses when we can get in person with the clients. Getting to know someone by name and face always seems to make a big difference.
Device Demonstration
A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type
| Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
|---|---|
| Vision | 70 |
| Hearing | 25 |
| Speech Communication | 16 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 85 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 24 |
| Daily Living | 21 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 26 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 |
| Computers and Related | 110 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 |
| Total # of Device Demonstrations | 377 |
B. Types of Participants
| Type of Participant | Decision-Makers | Other Participants | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 258 | 00 | 258 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 29 | 00 | 29 |
| Representatives of Education | 40 | 00 | 40 |
| Representatives of Employment | 27 | 00 | 27 |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 10 | 00 | 10 |
| Representative of Community Living | 10 | 00 | 10 |
| Representative of Technology | 03 | 00 | 03 |
| Total | 377 | 00 | 377 |
C. Number of Referrals
| Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
|---|---|
| Funding Source (non-AT program) | 299 |
| Service Provider | 65 |
| Vendor | 00 |
| Repair Service | 00 |
| Others | 13 |
| Total | 377 |
D. Anecdote
A client reached out to us about his new job at the Holiday Inn in Spearfish. His duties there are to clean the outside of the room windows. We first observed how he cleans the windows and spoke with his employment coordinator (EC) to see what his shortfalls are. He said that he assists him cleaning the upper part of the window and he cleans the bottom half by himself. EC did make a device that can allow him to reach high, unfortunately it is very flimsy and about to break in half. We brought a much sturdier pole and had him use hold that to see if that would work better. He said that it would, and it looked better for him being it was thicker and had more grip for him. This pole can also extend much further allowing him to be able to reach the top of the windows without straining himself. We told him that we can build or find one that will work better and his limited range of motion. EC feels that maybe with a stronger pole that he may be able to get him to do the entire window by himself. The next thing that addressed was how he cleans the lower portion of the windows. He currently uses a microfiber rag and EC wraps it around his hand. This does not work well for him. The rag will eventually come undone and will just be hanging in his hand. This is not very effective and limits if hand movement. We suggested a couple different types of microfiber gloves that could possibly work. He thought that it would be good to try both and see which would be the better option for him. This will allow for greater use of his full hand.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 320 | 10 | 12 | 342 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 04 | 08 | 02 | 14 |
| Subtotal | 324 | 18 | 14 | 356 |
| Have not made a decision | 05 | 06 | 01 | 12 |
| Subtotal | 329 | 24 | 15 | 368 |
| Nonrespondent | 01 | 05 | 03 | 09 |
| Total | 330 | 29 | 18 | 377 |
| Performance on this measure | 98.18% | 62.07% | 77.78% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 280 | 74.27% |
| Satisfied | 40 | 10.61% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 10 | 2.65% |
| Not at all satisfied | 04 | 1.06% |
| Nonrespondent | 43 | 11.41% |
| Total | 377 | |
| Response rate % | 88.59% |
G. Notes:
Overall Performance Measures
Overall Acquisition Performance Measure
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 05 | 01 | 214 | 220 |
| 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. | 01 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| 4. Subtotal | 06 | 01 | 214 | 221 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 06 | 01 | 214 | 221 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 11 | 11 |
| 8. Total | 06 | 01 | 225 | 232 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 83.33% | 100% | 95.11% | 94.83% |
| ACL Performance Measure | 85% | |||
| Met/Not Met | Met | |||
Overall Access Performance Measure
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 340 | 13 | 16 | 369 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 09 | 08 | 02 | 19 |
| Subtotal | 349 | 21 | 18 | 388 |
| Have not made a decision | 05 | 06 | 01 | 12 |
| Subtotal | 354 | 27 | 19 | 400 |
| Nonrespondent | 06 | 05 | 03 | 14 |
| Total | 360 | 32 | 22 | 414 |
| Performance on this measure | 98.31% | 65.63% | 81.82% | 94.87% |
| 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 | 97.45% | 95% | Met |
| Response Rate | 85.14% | 90% | Not Met |
Training
A. Training Participants: Number and Types of Participants; Geographical Distribution
| Type of Participant | Number |
|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 385 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 101 |
| Representatives of Education | 34 |
| Representatives of Employment | 05 |
| Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 17 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 27 |
| Representatives of Technology | 07 |
| Unable to Categorize | 23 |
| TOTAL | 599 |
| Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 338 | 260 | 01 | 599 |
B. Training Topics
| Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
|---|---|
| AT Products/Services | 262 |
| AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 205 |
| Combination of any/all of the above | 55 |
| Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 27 |
| Transition | 50 |
| Total | 599 |
C. Description of Training Activities
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
The State of South Dakota Bureau of Information and Technology maintains a List of Standard Assistive Technology, which DakotaLink updates on an annual basis. This software is designed to grant state employees access to Informational Communication Technology, particularly through computers, enabling them to use email, browse the Web, and utilize other forms of communication technology. Additionally, DakotaLink has an established agreement with the Bureau to offer training sessions to State Employees on how to effectively use this technology. They are also currently utilizing a web-based file management system that was implemented by the Department of Human Services. This evaluation involves Department personnel and the company responsible for the software. Throughout the evaluation process, DakotaLink diligently identifies any issues they come across and provides recommendations for improvement, which are then implemented."
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
DakotaLink participates in all Catch the Wave events, which help students determine what they might need to go on to college from the high school level. Since the COVID pandemic is no longer an issue, we could participate in all of the events scheduled in person.
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
DakotaLink has an extensive track record of collaborating with the State Bureau of Information and Technology and the Department of Human Services to guarantee Website Accessibility in compliance with Section 508 and W3C Standards. The State Bureau of Information and Technology has officially endorsed and published an Accessibility Policy, along with a dedicated web page aimed at aiding other Departments in fulfilling Section 508 and W3C Standards.
D. IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure
| Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
|---|---|
| IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 17 |
| Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 05 |
| No known outcome at this time | 00 |
| Nonrespondent | 05 |
| Total | 27 |
| Performance Measure Percentage | 81.5% |
| ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
| Met/Not Met | Met |
E. Notes:
Technical Assistance
A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance
| Education | 75% |
|---|---|
| Employment | 00% |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 00% |
| Community Living | 12% |
| Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 13% |
| Total | 100% |
B. Description of Technical Assistance
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
Our technical assistance ranges from students to state employees and it is a continuing activity for DakotaLink. DakotaLink has had a long history of working with the State Bureau of Information and Technology and the Department of Human Services to ensure Website Accessibility regarding Section 508 and W3C Standards. The State Bureau of Information and Technology has adopted and posted an Accessibility Policy and it is below in its entirety along with a Web Page dedicated to assisting other Departments in meeting Section 508 and W3C Standards.
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
DakotaLink participates in all of the Catch the Wave events, which help students determine what they might need for going on to college from the high school level. Since the COVID pandemic is no longer an issue, we were able to participate in all of the events scheduled in person.
C. Notes:
DakotaLink has a lengthy track record of collaboration with the State Bureau of Information and Technology and the Department of Human Services to guarantee Website Accessibility in compliance with Section 508 and W3C Standards. The State Bureau of Information and Technology has officially endorsed and shared an Accessibility Policy, along with a dedicated Web Page aimed at aiding other Departments in achieving compliance with Section 508 and W3C Standards.
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. DakotaLink distributes newsletters every quarter to individuals on our mailing list. We regularly update the list as new people express interest. Additionally, we share updates on various list-servs affiliated with DakotaLink. We also engage with audiences on list-servs, blogs, and social media platforms. This allows us to connect with around 500 individuals annually. The list serves we utilize are at3center-ml@list.ataporg.org and The Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP) ataporg@ataporg.org. We maintain an active presence on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DakotaLinkAT, where we share our activities and keep our audience informed. We have brochures available for the DakotaLink program and maintain a record of the presentations and conferences in which we participate.
2. DakotaLink has a resource directory that is on our website: https://www.dakotalink.net/at-partners
Information And Assistance
| Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 320 | 56 | 376 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 109 | 00 | 109 |
| Representative of Education | 31 | 00 | 31 |
| Representative of Employment | 11 | 00 | 11 |
| Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 16 | 03 | 19 |
| Representative of Community Living | 63 | 03 | 66 |
| Representative of Technology | 03 | 00 | 03 |
| Unable to Categorize | 14 | 01 | 15 |
| Total | 567 | 63 | 630 |
Referral Types:
Referrals to DakotaLink come from a diverse range of sources. Our outreach efforts encompass television commercials, the Dakota At Home program (https://dakotaathome.org/), as well as collaborations with the Department of Rehabilitation Services, the Department of Social Services, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Telephone Adaptive Device (TAD) program, the Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired (SBVI), the Deaf Blind Program, the iCanConnectSD program, the Strengthening Families Program, Family Support 360, the Hearing Aid Assistance Program, the Cochlear Implant Program, the Department of Education Office of Special Education, the Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program, Independent Living Centers, Disability Rights South Dakota, and the South Dakota Benefits Specialist Network. Is this conversation helpful so far?
Referral Sources:
In terms of the entities mentioned in the types of referrals we receive, roughly 70% originate from the Department of Rehabilitation Services. Approximately 20% come from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the remaining 10% encompass a combination of all the aforementioned types.
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 |
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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?
DakotaLink partners with the State Department of Human Services to offer training to Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors across the State regarding their established procedure for delivering Assistive Technology devices and services to their clients. South Dakota employs an electronic Referral Process that grants consumers access to Assistive Technology assessments, equipment, and training. DakotaLink has collaborated with the Department to create a Program Guide, and some adjustments to the policy have been made to simplify the process. The initiative is supported by AT Act Funding.
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.
We utilize Survey Monkey to distribute surveys to individuals engaged in business with DakotaLink. We achieve a response rate of approximately 60%, with 82% of the feedback being positive. The clear procedural outline enhances the efficiency of delivering assistive technology to people with disabilities. Engaging directly with our referral sources has proven to be more effective than other methods. This endeavor will persist and be adjusted as necessary in the future. We conduct this training at least once annually to address staff turnover and ensure that the process is functioning as intended.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Education; Employment; Housing / Home Automation; Transportation; Community Participation and Integration; Recreation / Leisure; Health; Aging; Transition(school to work or congregate care to community); Aging and Disability Network / No Wrong Door; Veterans; Information and Communication Technology / Remote Connectivity;
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
Device Loan; Demonstration; Reuse; State Financing; Training; Information & Assistance; Public Awareness; Technical Assistance;
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 |
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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.
We have formed a partnership with the LTSS Hope Waiver program. Our initial focus is on implementing smart home technology, and we may also explore the integration of SureHands lift systems. A contract has already been prepared, and our next step is to collaborate with them to establish the referral process. They utilize a platform called TheraP, and they conducted a training session in the Winter of 2023 to ensure we are proficient in its use. While it has been a lengthy journey, the completion of the contract and their commitment to offering training signify significant progress in our collaboration.
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.)
As previously stated, the agreement with LTSS adheres to the SFY23 Environmental Accessibility Adaptations Provider Provisions. You can find these standards at https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/ltssproviders.aspx. Our intention is to offer services under the rates and quantities specified for Environmental Accessibility Adaptations in the FY2023 LTSS Fee Schedule, which can be found at https://dhs.sd.gov/ltss/ltssproviders.aspx and is hereby included by reference.
3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?
Community Living
Additional And Leveraged Funds
A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities
| Fund Source | Amount | Use of Funds | Data Reported |
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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.
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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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 14:14:32 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)