National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

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Guam 2024

General Information

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

State AT Program Title:
Guam System for Assistive Technology
State AT Program Title:
State AT Program URL
https://www.gsatcedders.org/
Mailing Address:
Office of Graduate Studies, Sponsored Programs, & Research 303 University Drive UOG Station
City:
Mangilao
State:
Guam
Zip Code:
96913
Program Email:
gsat@guamcedders.org
Phone:
(671) 735-2490
TTY:
(671) 735-2491

Lead Agency

Agency Name:
Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service
Mailing Address:
Office of Graduate Studies, Sponsored Programs, & Research 303 University Drive UOG Station
City:
Mangilao
State:
Guam
Zip Code:
96913
Program URL:
https://www.guamcedders.org/

Implementing Entity

Name of Implementing Agency:
Mailing Address:
City
State:
Zip Code:
Program URL:

Program Director and Other Contacts

Program Director for State AT Program (last, first):
De Leon, June
Title:
Interim Director
Phone:
(671) 735-2481
E-mail:
june.deleon@guamcedders.org
Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):
De Leon, June
Title:
Interim Director
Phone:
(671) 735-2483
E-mail:
june.deleon@guamcedders.org
Primary Contact at Implementing Agency (last, first) - If applicable:
Title:
Phone:
E-mail:

Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director

Name (last, first):
Abelon, Leah Grace
Title:
CEDDERS Project Coordinator
Phone:
(671) 735-2490
E-mail:
leah.abelon@guamcedders.org

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):
Aguigui, Michelle
Title:
Associate Director
Phone:
(671) 735-2489
E-mail:
michelle.aguigui@guamcedders.org

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 00 01 01
Approved Not made 00 00 00
Rejected 00 00 00
Total 00 01 01

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income: $21,096 Highest Income: $21,096

Average Income
Sum of Incomes Loans Made Average Annual Income
$21,096 01 $21,096

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 01 00 00 00 00 01
Percentage of Loans 0% 100% 0% 0% 0% 0% 100%

3. Loan Type

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 01 100%
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 00 $0
Partnership Loans 01 $5,535
Total 01 $5,535

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest 2.13%
Highest 2.13%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates Number of Loans Made Average Interest Rate
02 01 2.13%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0% 00
2.1% to 4.0% 01
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 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 01 $5,535
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 01 $5,535

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? 0


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

Sheldon, an amputee below the knee due to an injury in 2010, was facing a challenging situation in obtaining a prosthetic leg. Unable to secure funding from other sources, he found himself struggling to access the necessary equipment. Fortunately, a certificate of medical necessity for a prosthetic leg was issued by his doctor, providing a glimmer of hope. After submitting the required documents and application, Sheldon received approval for funding from the Akudi Loan Program's Loan Review Committee just a week later. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Sheldon now has the prosthetic he needs to engage in activities with confidence, thanks to the support he received.

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. 00 00 01 01
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 01 01
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 00 00 01 01
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 00 00 01 01
9. Performance on this measure NaN% NaN% 100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 01 100%
Satisfied 00 0%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total Surveyed 01
Response rate % 100%

G. Notes:

Reutilization

A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices

Activity Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity
A. Device Exchange 01
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan 89
C. Total 90

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 90

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 01 $1,200 $800 $400
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 00 $0 $0 $0
Computers and Related 00 $0 $0 $0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00 $0 $0 $0
Total 01 $1,200 $800 $400

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 01 $169 $0 $169
Hearing 04 $847 $0 $847
Speech Communication 00 $0 $0 $0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00 $0 $0 $0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 68 $19,191 $0 $19,191
Daily Living 13 $965 $1 $964
Environmental Adaptations 02 $907 $0 $907
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 00 $0 $0 $0
Computers and Related 00 $0 $0 $0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 01 $65 $0 $65
Total 89 $22,144 $1 $22,143

D. Anecdote

While en route to Hawaii, Inigo was compelled to make an emergency stop in Guam due to her daughter Emily's sudden health crisis. Emily was subsequently diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that affects muscle function, rendering her unable to use her hands and feet due to muscle weakness. The hospital social worker, recognizing the unique challenges presented by Emily's condition, reached out to the State Assistive Technology program on March 1, 2024 for assistance. They specifically requested a 14” wheelchair, a mobility aid that was difficult to procure through the medical suppliers or pharmacies because of availability was rare. Despite being a standard wheelchair, this equipment possessed special features that enabled Emily to navigate independently, a crucial aspect for her spirited personality. Unlike a transport chair where she would need to be pushed, the wheelchair allowed Emily the freedom to move on her own. Given the prolonged duration that Emily would require a wheelchair for her recovery, this open-ended solution provided her with the flexibility needed to support her rehabilitation journey. Upon returning to the center, Emily exhibited remarkable progress - she was now on her feet and walking. The combination of the wheelchair and ongoing physical therapy played a vital role in aiding Emily on her path to recovery.

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. 00 00 31 31
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 03 04 25 32
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 01 25 26
4. Subtotal 03 05 81 89
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 03 05 81 89
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 03 05 81 89
9. Performance on this measure 100% 100% 100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 85 94.44%
Satisfied 04 4.44%
Satisfied somewhat 01 1.11%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total Surveyed 90
Response rate % 100%

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) 65
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding 01
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation 12
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity 01
Total 79

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 50 09 59
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 12 04 16
Representative of Education 01 00 01
Representative of Employment 01 00 01
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 01 01 02
Representatives of Community Living 00 00 00
Representatives of Technology 00 00 00
Total 65 14 79

C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans

Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days 30

D. Types of Devices Loaned

Types of Devices Loaned
Type of AT Device Number of Devices
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Vision 07 00 07
Hearing 04 03 07
Speech Communication 00 00 00
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00 00 00
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 47 13 60
Daily Living 03 02 05
Environmental Adaptations 01 00 01
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 00 00 00
Computers and Related 00 01 01
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 03 00 03
Total 65 19 84

E. Anecdote

On August 21, 2024, Chris borrowed a Firefly Upsee to aid her 4-year-old child in walking. The child had been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a condition that affected her mobility and motor skills. The Firefly Upsee, a mobility device designed for children with motor impairments, provided the necessary support and assistance for her child to experience the joy of walking and exploring the world around her. In addition to facilitating her child's physical mobility, Chris and her partner also had goals related to their child's overall development and well-being. They hoped that by using the Firefly Upsee, their child would not only improve her motor skills but also enhance her social interactions and cognitive development. They believed that the ability to stand and walk with assistance would boost her confidence and independence, allowing her to participate more fully in daily activities and interactions with her peers. Chris and her partner aimed to create meaningful bonding experiences with their child through the shared use of the Firefly Upsee.

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 04 01 55 60
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 00 00 05 05
Subtotal 04 01 60 65
Have not made a decision 00 00 00 00
Subtotal 04 01 60 65
Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
Total 04 01 60 65
Performance on this measure 100% 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. 00 00 06 06
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 01 00 03 04
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 04 04
4. Subtotal 01 00 13 14
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 01 00 13 14
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 01 00 13 14
9. Performance on this measure 100% NaN% 100%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 78 98.73%
Satisfied 01 1.27%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total Surveyed 79
Response rate % 100%

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 02
Hearing 02
Speech Communication 01
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 18
Daily Living 01
Environmental Adaptations 00
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 00
Computers and Related 00
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00
Total # of Device Demonstrations 24

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant Decision-Makers Other Participants Total
Individuals with Disabilities 08 00 08
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 14 05 19
Representatives of Education 00 00 00
Representatives of Employment 00 00 00
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 02 02 04
Representative of Community Living 00 01 01
Representative of Technology 00 00 00
Total 24 08 32

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program) 06
Service Provider 03
Vendor 09
Repair Service 00
Others 01
Total 19

D. Anecdote

Frances, a 28-year-old woman, has lived with a hearing impairment since birth, which posed challenges in her daily activities, particularly in communication. Despite working as a teacher, she faced difficulties in hearing her students clearly. The use of hearing aids partially improved her ability to hear, but unfortunately, she lost them. In her search for temporary solutions, and while awaiting funding for replacements. Frances turned to the State Assistive Technology program on March 20, 2024. During her visit, she was introduced to various options, including a rechargeable hearing aid with adjustable amplification, a Pocketalker, and two different types of FM Systems: the Williams Sound and Contigo models. After exploring these choices, Frances expressed a preference for the rechargeable hearing aids and decided to borrow them for the short term. She found them to be effective and eventually made the decision to purchase this assistive technology device, enabling her to continue teaching and communicate more effectively until she could secure funding for the prescribed hearing aids recommended by her audiologist.

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 00 02 21 23
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 00 00 01 01
Subtotal 00 02 22 24
Have not made a decision 00 00 00 00
Subtotal 00 02 22 24
Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
Total 00 02 22 24
Performance on this measure NaN% 100% 100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 32 100%
Satisfied 00 0%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 00 0%
Total 32
Response rate % 100%

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. 00 00 38 38
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 04 04 28 36
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 01 29 30
4. Subtotal 04 05 95 104
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 04 05 95 104
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
8. Total 04 05 95 104
9. Performance on this measure 100% 80% 69.47% 71.15%
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 04 03 76 83
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 00 00 06 06
Subtotal 04 03 82 89
Have not made a decision 00 00 00 00
Subtotal 04 03 82 89
Nonrespondent 00 00 00 00
Total 04 03 82 89
Performance on this measure 100% 100% 100% 100%
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 99.50% 95% Met
Response Rate 100% 90% Met

Educational/Training Activities

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

Educational/Training Activities by Participant Type
Type of Participant Number
Individuals with Disabilities 56
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 22
Representatives of Education 54
Representatives of Employment 01
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 08
Representatives of Community Living 922
Representatives of Technology 05
Unable to Categorize 00
TOTAL 1,068

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro Non Metro Unknown TOTAL
00 1,063 05 1,068

B. Educational/Training Activity Topics

Educational/Training Activities by Topic
Primary Topic of Educational/Training Activities Participants
AT Products/Services 00
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice 00
Combination of any/all of the above 1,026
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access 19
Transition 23
Total 1,068

C. Description of Educational/Training Activities

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

The University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities in Education, Research, & Service, through the Guam System for Assistive Technology, collaborated with the Department of Public Health & Social Services Division of Children’s Wellness Bureau of Childcare Services to initiate the S.E.A.T. Project. The primary objective of the S.E.A.T. Project is to provide disability awareness training and technical assistance, offer assistive technology training and facilitate its utilization, and enhance the capacity of childcare service providers in delivering care for young children with disabilities, including those who may require assistive technology. The project conducted various sessions from May 2024 to December 2024. The topics covered during the sessions were as follows: - May 25, 2024: Disability Awareness - June 8, 2024: Types of Disability - June 22, 2024: Environmental Adaptations - July 20, 2024: Mobility - August 3, 2024: Learning, Cognition, and Development - August 24, 2024: Vision - September 28, 2024: Speech Communication - November 16, 2024: What is an IFSP AND IEP - December 14, 2024: Collaborative Team Approach

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

The GSAT team conducted a collaborative presentation with the CEDDERS Associate Director on Transition Planning for students with special needs as they prepare for adulthood, as well as the Individualized Education Program (IEP). During the event, GSAT showcased a variety of devices for demonstration purposes, focusing on areas such as Learning Cognition and Developmental tools, Vision aids, Hard of Hearing/Deaf assistance, and Recreational and Leisure equipment.

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

The State AT program hosted a training session focused on the topic of designing and developing documents and the web for accessibility. The attendees of the session were students from Certified Nurse Assistant Bootcamp, aim to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to create accessible digital documents . The primary goal of the training was to enable the students to effectively communicate with visually impaired patients, individuals with autism, and fine motor skills problems, by leveraging basic knowledge and skills to set up the appropriate accessibility features in their correspondence.

D. IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activity Performance Measure

IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activity Performance Measure
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activities Received Number
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies 00
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented 19
No known outcome at this time 00
Nonrespondent 00
Total 19
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 00%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 00%
Community Living 100%
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:

On February 2024, the Executive Director of Department of Revenue and Taxation sought assistance from their Assistive Technology Project Coordinator to look at innovative ways to enhance services for taxpayers and clients with disabilities. In a meeting attended by the Special Project Coordinator and Deputy Director, an assessment was conducted to identify assistive technology solutions. Following the assessment, recommendations were made to improve accessibility, including the formulation of surveys for the public, providing clear guidance on accommodations for employees with disabilities, and implementing disability sensitivity training for staff. These proactive steps were designed to increase awareness and make services more accessible for individuals with disabilities, showcasing the agency's commitment to inclusive practices and enhancing the overall experience for their diverse clientele.

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

On October 5, 2023, The Community Habilitation Program received a generous donation of 10 iPads. The program manager, excited about the opportunity to enhance the experience for their young adult clients with severe disabilities, promptly sought technical assistance to install the iPads and necessary apps. Recognizing the potential impact of these devices on the individuals they serve. Recognizing the transformative potential of these devices in improving the lives of their clients, the team was keen on ensuring a seamless transition as they integrated this new technology into their daily routines.

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. On November 16, 2023, a session was held at the Guma Ginefli'e Adult Dementia Care Center to raise awareness regarding assistive technology services. The information was disseminated through a presentation on GSAT services, coupled with demonstrations of the toothbrush holder and jar opener. This initiative reached a total of 12 individuals with disabilities and 5 caregivers, imparting valuable knowledge and practical demonstrations of assistive devices. On November 16, 2023, a session was held at the Guma Ginefli'e Adult Dementia Care Center to raise awareness regarding assistive technology services. The information was disseminated through a presentation on GSAT services, coupled with demonstrations of the toothbrush holder and jar opener. This initiative reached a total of 12 individuals with disabilities and 5 caregivers, imparting valuable knowledge and practical demonstrations of assistive devices. Following the training session, positive outcomes were observed among individuals with dementia at the care center. Individuals with dementia were able to use the demonstrated assistive devices to perform tasks such as brushing their teeth and opening jars autonomously, fostering a sense of self-reliance. Caregivers benefited from the training by learning how assistive devices can support individuals with dementia, potentially easing the burden of caregiving responsibilities and promoting a more harmonious caregiving environment. Overall, the awareness session and demonstration of assistive technology at Guma Ginefli'e Adult Dementia Care Center yielded positive outcomes by empowering individuals with dementia to enhance their independence and overall well-being, while also providing valuable support and resources for their caregivers.

2. Beginning in January 2024 and continuing through December 2024, a recurring event is scheduled every 1st Saturday of the month to raise awareness among the general public regarding assistive technology services. This initiative involves a Joint Outreach collaboration between Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) and Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (GEHDI), featuring a unique scavenger hunt game. During the event, participants are encouraged to scan QR codes on the websites of GSAT, GEHDI, and UOG CEDDERS to find answers to questions related to assistive technology services and GEHDI services. Those successfully completing the scavenger hunt would win free children's Chamorro books donated by Public Health PDG. Additionally, brochures for GSAT and AKUDI Loan, as well as flyers for iCan Connect and Public Health Get Care Program, are distributed to all participants attending the event. The number of participants reached during each event varies, with each individual gaining valuable insights into assistive technology and related services. Positive outcomes from this training for those previously unaware of assistive technology include: Increased knowledge and awareness: Participants are introduced to the concept of assistive technology and the range of services available to support individuals with disabilities. This newfound awareness equips them with the information needed to access and utilize these resources effectively. Community engagement: The interactive nature of the scavenger hunt game fosters community engagement and participation, creating a fun and educational environment where attendees can learn about assistive technology in a meaningful way.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients AT Device/
Service		 AT Funding Total
Individuals with Disabilities 24 06 30
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 27 01 28
Representative of Education 07 00 07
Representative of Employment 03 01 04
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 30 00 30
Representative of Community Living 10 03 13
Representative of Technology 00 00 00
Unable to Categorize 00 00 00
Total 101 11 112

Referral Types:

A key partnership has been established with local hospitals, where GSAT's collaboration with hospital staff has led to a notable increase in referrals. This partnership is particularly impactful as individuals being discharged from the hospital are now directed to the AT program for ongoing support. Additionally, GSAT's participation in various outreach events, where the program was invited to speak and present, has played a crucial role in boosting referrals. These events have served as a platform to raise awareness and engage with potential users of assistive technology, resulting in a rise in referrals. Furthermore, a notable trend has emerged where individuals who have benefited from the services of the State AT Program are now becoming advocates by referring their family and friends to the program. This word-of-mouth referral system has proven to be an effective method of expanding outreach and educating the community about the program.

Referral Sources:

GSAT has established a robust network of referral sources, mainly through partnerships with local hospitals, Guam Hearing Clinics, and Community partners in Guam. This collaboration has facilitated steady referrals from their staff, who have played a key role in directing patients who will be discharged or seeking alternative funding to the AT program. These referral channels have contributed to approximately 43% of GSAT's total referrals for information and assistance originating from hospital staff, 19% from family and friends, with a smaller number coming through outreach and self-referral efforts.

Notes:

Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes

Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities

Yes
Yes
The State AT program partners with the Guam Department of Education Division of Special Education to collaborate with experts in the field and provide presentations during the Start Early with Assistive Technology Project. GSAT staff also collaborates with them to gather recommendations for potential assistive technology that they have firsthand experience using with their students.
The State AT program and the State Education Agency align in their approach to consider assistive technology in a way that maximizes student’s functional abilities and competence in using AT services. This initiative will be a continued effort between the two entities.

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), Information and Communication Technology/Remote Connectivity,

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

Device Loan, Demo, Reuse, Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,
Yes
Yes
The State AT program collaborates with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, inviting VR Counselors to give presentations on the Stepping Stones to Employment program. This initiative aims to help individuals achieve economic self-sufficiency through employment, emphasizing accountability, reliability, and independence in an inclusive society. Topics covered include the orientation process, initial interview/application overview, evaluation and eligibility determination, Individualized Plan for Employment, VR service delivery, and successful closure.
The State AT program collaborates with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), inviting VR Counselors to give presentations on the Stepping Stones to Employment program. This initiative aims to help individuals achieve economic self-sufficiency through employment, emphasizing accountability, reliability, and independence in an inclusive society. Topics covered include the orientation process, initial interview/application overview, evaluation and eligibility determination, Individualized Plan for Employment, VR service delivery, and successful closure. DVR provides funding to individuals who require reasonable accommodations to support their access to employment opportunities. This funding may cover a wide range of accommodations, such as assistive technology devices, modifications to workspaces, specialized training, and other support services. By offering financial assistance for these accommodations, VR aims to empower individuals with disabilities to secure and maintain meaningful employment, allowing them to fully participate in the workforce and contribute to the community.

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

Education, Employment, Community Participation and Integration, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community),

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

State Financing, Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,
Yes
Yes
The State AT program partnered with the Department of Public Health and Social Services, Division of Senior Centers to sponsor and adapted bowling activity for elderly participants.
Funds from the Division of Senior Citizens and Assistive Technology were used to launch this initiative, allowing 68 senior citizens to engage in activities with the support of assistive technology. This marks the second year of the senior games organized by DPHSS, with the goal of sustaining it as an ongoing event pending funding availability. Apart from adapted bowling, the program seeks to introduce a variety of activities at senior centers that promote both physical and mental well-being through assistive technology. The State AT program will continue to facilitate inclusive activities for seniors, fostering confidence and independence. Additionally, the program plans to reintroduce successful past activities at the Senior Centers.

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

Community Participation and Integration, Recreation/Leisure, Health, Aging, Aging and Disability Network/No Wrong Door,

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

Demo, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,
Yes
Yes
The State AT program received a valuable presentation during the annual AT Conference from the Department of Public Health and Social Services, delivered by a Claims Processing and Utilization Review Officer. The presentation focused on Guam Medicaid and MIP Program Benefits and Limitations within the Division of Public Welfare Bureau of Health Care Financing Administration. Attendees were engaged in learning about the benefits and limitations of the Guam Medicaid and MIP program, with a special emphasis on educating them about various aspects of the program. Additionally, the presentation included a review of forms to assist applicants in navigating program requirements and ensuring access to essential healthcare services.
It was important to notify the agency about the accessibility of program documents to facilitate the seamless integration of their services. Additionally, suggesting the potential use of accessible widgets can provide various options for individuals with disabilities to access information in a more inclusive manner. The State AT program will continue to work with the Medicaid Program, to assist individuals in navigating their system and to be update with latest improvements to services.

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?

Demo, State Financing, Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,
Additional Coordination/Collaboration activities 0

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? 00

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
Federal$805TrainingFalse
Federal$46,854Public Awareness, I&AFalse
Federal$234,269TrainingFalse
Federal$117,135Technical AssistanceFalse
Federal$113TrainingFalse
Federal$70,281DemonstrationFalse
Federal$1,500TrainingFalse
Amount: $470,957

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).

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This FY24 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.