1. Name Given to Statewide AT Program: Puerto Rico Assistive Technology Program (PRATP)
2. Website dedicated to Statewide AT Program: http://www.pratp.upr.edu
3. Name and Address of Lead Agency
University of Puerto Rico (UPR)
Jardin Botanico Sur
1187 Calle Flamboyan
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00926-1117
4. Name, Title, and Contact Information for Lead Agency Certifying Representative.
Maria I. Miranda
Program Director
Puerto Rico Assistive Technology Program
University of Puerto Rico (UPR)
Jardin Botanico Sur
1187 Calle Flamboyan
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00926-1117
(787) 474-9999 mariamiranda@pratp.upr.edu
5. Information about Program Director at Lead Agency:
Maria I. Miranda
Program Director
Puerto Rico Assistive Technology Program
University of Puerto Rico (UPR)
Jardin Botanico Sur
1187 Calle Flamboyan
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00926-1117
(787) 474-9999 mariamiranda@pratp.upr.edu
6. Information about Program Contact(s) at Lead Agency:
María Vargas
Associate Director
Resource Center for Science and Engineering
University of Puerto Rico (UPR)
P.O. Box 23334
San Juan, PR 00931-3334
(787) 765-6696 m_vargas@rcse.upr.edu
7. Telephone at Lead Agency for Public: 855-449-2999
8. E-mail at Lead Agency for Public: pratp@pratp.upr.edu
9. Descriptor of the agency: University
10. If Other was selected for question 9, identify and describe the agency:
11. Contract with an Implementing Entity? No
12. Name and Address of Implementing Entity:
13. Information about Program Director at the Implementing Entity:
14. Information about Program Contact(s) at Implementing Entity:
15. Telephone at Implementing Entity for Public:
16. E-mail at Implementing Entity for Public:
17. Type of organization:
18. If Other was selected, identify and describe the entity:
19. Describe the mechanisms established to ensure coordination of activities and collaboration between the Implementing Entity and the state:
20. Is the Lead Agency named new or different Lead Agency? No
21. Explain why the Lead Agency previously designated by your state should not serve as the Lead Agency:
22. Explain why the Lead Agency newly designated by your state should not serve as the Lead Agency:
23. Is the Implementing Entity named in this State Plan a new or different Implementing Entity from the one designated by the Governor in your previous State Plan?
If you answered no or not applicable to question 23, you may skip ahead to the next page. Otherwise, you must answer the following questions.
24. Explain why the Implementing Entity previously designated by your state should not serve as the Implementing Entity:
25. Explain why the Implementing Entity newly designated by your state
should serve as the Implementing Entity:
1. In accordance with section 4(c)(2) of the AT Act of 1998, as amended our state has a consumer-majority advisory council that provides consumer-responsive, consumer-driven advice to the state for planning of, implementation of, and evaluation of the activities carried out through the grant, including setting measurable goals. This advisory council is geographically representative of the State and reflects the diversity of the State with respect to race, ethnicity, types of disabilities across the age span, and users of types of services that an individual with a disability may receive. Yes
2. The advisory council includes a representative of the designated State agency, as defined in section 7 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 705) Yes
3. The advisory council includes a representative of the State agency for individuals who are blind (within the meaning of section 101 of that Act (29 U.S.C. 721));
4. The advisory council includes a representative of a State center for independent living described in part C of title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796f et seq.); Yes
5. The advisory council includes a representative of the State workforce investment board established under section 111 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2821); Yes
6. The advisory council includes a representative of the State educational agency, as defined in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 Yes
7. The advisory council includes other representatives
Representative from the Ombudsman Office for Persons with Disabilities (OPPI)
8. The advisory council includes the following number of individuals with disabilities that use assistive technology or their family members or guardians 10
9. If the Statewide AT Program does not have the composition and representation required under section 4(c)(2)(B), explain.
10. Proposed Budget Allocations
State Financing Activities $50,001-$60,000
Device Reutilization Activities $40,001-$50,000
Device Loan Activity Proposed $70,001-$80,000
Device Demonstration Activity $40,001-$50,000
State Leadership Activities more than $100,000
11. For every activity for which you selected "claiming comparability" in item 10, describe the comparable activity.
12. Describe your planned procedures for tracking expenditures for State-level and State Leadership activities.
The University of Puerto Rico uses the Oracle Applications® system to monitor all accounts and transactions such as purchases, payments, and budget management of all university based programs. The Puerto Rico Assistive Technology Program (PRATP) manages its accounts through the university’s Resource Center for Science and Engineering (RCSE) Finance Office. The fiscal needs to run the Program are established by the Program Director and the Administrator. The Program Administrator maintains all the documentation pertaining to the management of the accounts. In the event of an uncertain transaction regarding the use of funds by PRATP, a communication is sent by the Director of the RCSE Finance Office to PRAPT’s Administrator for appropriate clarification and action. At any time, a report can be obtained from the RCSC Finance Office to monitor expenditures to assure that PRATP is in compliance with the percentages and budget amounts as per the State Plan (60% for State Level Activities and 40% for State Leadership Activities where at least 5% of that 40% is dedicated to Transition-Related Activities). It is the responsibility of PRATP’s Administrator to monitor expenditures on a monthly basis in consultation with the Resource Center for Science and Engineering and to provide necessary updates to the Program Director.
13. State Financing Activities Performed
Financial loan program No
Access to telework loan fund No
Cooperative buying program No
Financing for home modifications program No
Telecommunications distribution program No
Last resort program No
Other program Yes
Other Activities Performed
How many device exchange programs do you support? 1
How many device reassignment programs do you support? 1
How many device loan programs do you support? 1
How many device demonstration programs do you support? 1
14. What is the baseline year for the measurable goals for this state
plan? 2011
2006
2. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
3. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following support
(choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization or
Activity |
a. You provide
support |
b. Receive support
from the state |
c. Receive support
from these private entities |
d. Collaborate with |
AgrAbility Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance for
Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank or other
financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community Living
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Easter Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health, allied
health, and rehabilitation-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Independent Living
Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution of
Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Non-categorical
disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals with developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals with physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization focused
specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection and
Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Technology agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
7. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
Low Cost Device Design and Development (LD3) Program
The LD3 program allows consumers to obtain functional AT solutions mimicking those of devices in the market that could not be acquired otherwise. This program seeks to facilitate the acquisition of assistive technologies through the design and development of low cost devices as well as through the installation, configuration and training on the use of the adapted devices (the consumer is required to provide only the materials needed for the construction of the device). The activities carried out under this program allow PRATP to facilitate the acquisition of AT devices in three main scenarios:
• Scenario 1: The AT device needed does not exist in the market: In this scenario PRATP works with the consumer towards the design and development of a new AT device to satisfy his/her particular needs (i.e. development of a head-controlled Videogame system for a quadriplegic child).
• Scenario 2: The AT device exists in the market but it must be modified in order to make it usable by the consumer (i.e. adapt an electric feeder controller to be used by single switch).
• Scenario 3: The AT device exists in the market but its cost is too high to be accessible by Puerto Rican consumers and the device cannot be obtained otherwise. In this case the adaptation is intended to target the functionality of the original device but with a different design, NOT with a reverse engineering approach (duplicating the actual device), therefore preventing intellectual property issues. (e.g. adapt a $50 mouth controlled joystick with sip-n-puff functions to provide the functionality of products available in the AT market which range from $1,495 to over $2,600).
To implement the LD3 program, PRATP’s AT Specialists receive referrals of technology needs from consumers, family members and service providers statewide. Upon receiving a request for a device the AT Specialists search the available databases (Stage 1) to assess whether a commercially available device satisfies the consumer needs and whether such technology is accessible to the individual. If the appropriate device falls under any of the 3 Scenarios detailed above, then the AT Specialists determine how viable and cost-effective would be to design and develop such device. If viable, the request goes to Stage 2 where the AT Specialists design and present a potential solution to the consumer, including information regarding functional characteristics of the intended device (what it can and cannot do), how it compares to devices available in the market (if comparable devices exist), estimated cost of materials and estimated time to project completion. Stage 3 begins upon approval of the proposed solution and the provision of materials by the consumer. In this stage the device is designed, built, beta-tested and refined to its final version. Then, in Stage 4, the device is installed, configured (if necessary) and finally given to the consumer along with user instructions and appropriate training. A report is then filed for each completed device and consumer served.
As part of the LD3 program implementation, a volunteer group was created to provide assistance and expertise to PRATP’s AT Specialists throughout the design and development process. Membership on this AT Development Team (ATDT) varies each semester but it has been usually comprised of specialists in the fields of assistive technology, engineering, rehabilitation technology, electronics, robotics and human factors engineering. Students in these fields, as well as students in professions related to persons with disabilities, also participate in the development team under the guidance and supervision of PRATP’s AT Specialists.
The LD3 program also leads design teams of mechanical, electrical and computer engineering students and faculty at local universities for the development of complex technologies that are beyond the design and manufacturing capabilities of the program. On the other hand, for simpler technologies, generic designs using extremely low cost materials and easy to find components are developed in order to coordinate workshops were consumers, family members, guardians, teachers and service providers can directly build and take home technologies to address their particular needs (including adaptive switches, basic environmental controls, computer access interfaces, etc.). Information regarding cost comparison of each adapted device with the market version of its closest match (when available) is gathered in order to track the financial impact of the low cost solutions provided.
Aside from the viability analysis for building a particular technology, the services provided by the LD3 program do not have any eligibility requirement regarding type of technology, type of disability, age, income level or geographical location. Information regarding the availability of the program is distributed State-wide through the training and technical support activities carried out by PRATP as well as through PRATP’s website.
General device exchange
PRATP’s AT Device Exchange Program provide a mean for individuals with disabilities to obtain AT devices at a low cost without the burden of meeting eligibility criteria, extended waiting periods or burdensome paperwork. Also, through this Program consumers can have access to devices and equipment that may not be provided by local government agencies or other funding sources. Overall, this system promotes the reuse of devices no longer needed (unused) by others, increases the availability of assistive technology Island-wide, and allows consumer involvement in the selection of appropriate AT devices.
To implement the AT Device Exchange Program, PRATP uses three approaches:
1. Use of existing social networking tools to post AT devices available to sell, buy, donate or to spread out the need for a specific device. PRATP acts as the contact entity to facilitate device exchanges between all the persons involved. In this way, the Program seeks to facilitate data acquisition on actual devices being exchanged and the transaction details.
2. Use of existing online classified tools (in Spanish) widely used by general consumers in Puerto Rico. In this scenario the AT Device Exchange Program takes advantage of broadly marketed and highly recognized classified systems to post AT devices to sell, buy or donate. PRATP helps consumers in the process of posting AT needs and wants and acts as the contact entity to facilitate the exchange process. In this way, the Program seeks to facilitate data acquisition on actual devices being exchanged and the transaction details.
3. Continued use of the Online AT Ads System (“Clasificado Virtual de AT”) developed by PRATP and hosted in its fully accessible web page. Individuals interested in buying, selling, donating, or receiving items through the Online AT Ads Page create a personal account in order to have access to the Ads Section. The Ads for devices being sold or donated are posted for a 90 day period. In order to gather appropriate statistics, individuals who posted items are be contacted towards the end of the 90 day period to find out if the devices were in fact exchanged and the details of such transaction. For individuals without Internet access, a toll-free number is available to contact a project staff person to either post a device on the database or to request a search of available devices based on the consumer needs (this service can also be accessed by mail or in person). PRATP has also set up an awareness program (newsletters, communications via internet, presentations) to inform consumers and disability related organizations about the features and benefits of the Online AT Ads system. [Note: due to programming platform changes, this database might become hard to sustain in the long run in which case it may be considered its elimination in favor of the other two exchange options described above].
2006
5. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
6. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following support
(choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization or
Activity |
a. You provide
support |
b. Receive support
from the state |
c. Receive support
from these private entities |
d. Collaborate with |
AgrAbility Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance for
Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank or other
financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community Living
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Easter Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health, allied
health, and rehabilitation-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Independent Living
Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution of
Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Non-categorical
disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals with developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals with physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
focused specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection and
Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Technology agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
10. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
http://cv.pratp.upr.edu
the transaction is direct consumer-to-consumer
Nothing
reassigns general AT
2006
3. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
4. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following support
(choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization or
Activity |
a. You provide
support |
b. Receive support
from the state |
c. Receive support
from these private entities |
d. Collaborate
with |
AgrAbility Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance for
Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank or other
financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community Living
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Easter Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health, allied
health, and rehabilitation-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Independent Living
Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution of
Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Non-categorical
disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals with developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that
primarily serves individuals with physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
focused specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection and
Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Technology agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
8. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
A fee is assigned based on the value or type of device
A fee is assigned based on the value or type of device
The consumer picks up the device at a designated site
Type of
device |
Based on
consumer choice and/or request |
A
professional recommendation is required |
Qualified
program staff match it to the consumer |
Qualified
consultants and/or volunteers match it to the consumer |
The device
is provided through a qualified third-party |
Not
applicable - this type of device is not made available |
Vision |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Hearing |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Speech
Communication |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Learning,
Cognition, and Developmental |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Mobility,
Seating, and Positioning |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Daily
Living |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Environmental
Adaptations |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Vehicle
Modification and Transportation |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Recreation,
Sports, and Leisure Equipment |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Computer
and Associated Equipment |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Successful device use is supported through the provision of basic device training, instruction manuals, individual assistance and follow up. In some cases, installation and configuration services are also provided.
General program
2006
6. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
7. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following
support (choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization
or Activity |
a. You
provide support |
b. Receive
support from the state |
c. Receive
support from these private entities |
d.
Collaborate with |
AgrAbility
Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance
for Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank or
other financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community
Living agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Easter
Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health,
allied health, and rehabilitation-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Independent
Living Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution
of Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Non-categorical
disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
focused specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection
and Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Technology
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
11. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
Nothing
Nothing
Provision of instruction manuals, individual assistance services, demonstrations prior to the device loan. When needed, instruction manuals in alternate formats are provided. Particular effort is placed is the design and development of Spanish instruction manuals and videos, since most AT manufacturers do not address this language need. Also, referral services to qualified AT professionals are available through this program.
15. Devices in the loan pool also are made available for the following
(choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
The consumer picks up the device at a designated site
If the consumer is not able to come to the facilities to pick up the equipment, the Loan Program will coordinate the delivery to the consumer by staff.
General program
2006
6. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
7. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following support
(choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization
or Activity |
a. You
provide support |
b.
Receive support from the state |
c.
Receive support from these private entities |
d.
Collaborate with |
AgrAbility
Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance
for Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank or
other financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community
Living agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Easter
Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health,
allied health, and rehabilitation-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Independent
Living Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution
of Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Non-categorical
disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
focused specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection
and Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Technology
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
11. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
In-person demonstrations that move
to multiple sites
In-person demonstrations from mobile units
Nothing
Nothing
15. Devices in the demonstration pool also are made available for the
following (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
Space
1. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
2. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following
support (choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization
or Activity |
a. You
provide support |
b.
Receive support from the state |
c.
Receive support from these private entities |
d.
Collaborate with |
AgrAbility
Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance
for Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank or
other financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community
Living agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Easter
Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health,
allied health, and rehabilitation-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Independent
Living Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution
of Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Non-categorical
disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
focused specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection
and Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Technology
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
6. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
At sites arranged by those receiving the training
Nothing
The fee is based on the length/complexity/value/type
PRATP holds several Regional AT Conferences throughout the Island in order to increase the outreach to consumers and service providers. The Regional Conferences provide a setting for addressing particular issues directly pertaining to Puerto Ricans with disabilities an AT use.
1. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
2. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following
support (choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization
or Activity |
a. You
provide support |
b.
Receive support from the state |
c.
Receive support from these private entities |
d.
Collaborate with |
AgrAbility
Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance
for Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank or
other financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community
Living agency |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Easter
Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health,
allied health, and rehabilitation-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Independent
Living Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution
of Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Non-categorical
disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
focused specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection
and Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Technology
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
6. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
Nothing
1. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
2. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following
support (choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization
or Activity |
a. You
provide support |
b.
Receive support from the state |
c.
Receive support from these private entities |
d.
Collaborate with |
AgrAbility
Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance
for Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank
or other financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community
Living agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Easter
Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health,
allied health, and rehabilitation-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Independent
Living Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution
of Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Non-categorical
disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
that primarily serves individuals with physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization
focused specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection
and Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Technology
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
6. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
PRATP increases awareness in the general community through several means, such as: informational flyers and brochures distributed in activities sponsored by public and private entities in Puerto Rico, radio and TV interviews, articles written for local newspapers, social media tools and through a fully accessible web page designed for Spanish-speaking individuals. Over the three years of this State Plan PRATP will continue these awareness activities and will develop a campaign to ensure information on the availability, benefits, appropriateness, and costs of assistive technology devices is made available to consumers, their family members, disability related professionals, employers, policy makers, and the general public around the Island. As part of this campaign, PRATP will continue the distribution of a promotional DVD in Spanish (with sign language interpretation) to AT stakeholders in Puerto Rico.
All awareness materials are provided in alternate formats, when required, to ensure access to information by persons with disabilities. AT related information and activities taking place in Puerto Rico such as Conferences on disability and technology, are posted in PRAPT’s web site. This gives Spanish speaking individuals in the Island, as well as those in Central and South America , Hispanic groups in the US Mainland and those around the world, access to information related to AT in their native language. Web based materials will make the information more accessible to persons with disabilities, particularly for those with visual and motor disabilities.
1. Who conducts this activity? Check all that apply.
Yes
No
2. The Statewide AT Program provides and/or receives the following
support (choose all that apply).
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
If you conduct this activity by providing financial or in-kind support to other entities, identify the kinds of entities you support in column (a) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from the state to conduct this activity, identify the state entities that provide this support in column (b) of the following table.
If you receive financial or in-kind support from private entities, identify the private entities that provide this support in column (c) of the following table.
If you coordinate and collaborate with other entities in conducting this activity, identify those entities in column (d) of the following table.
Organization or Activity |
a. You provide support |
b. Receive support from the state |
c. Receive support from these private entities |
d. Collaborate with |
AgrAbility Program |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Alliance for Technology Access Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Bank or other financial institution |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Community Living agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Easter Seals |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Education-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Employment-related agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Health, allied health, and rehabilitation-related
agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Independent Living Center |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Institution of Higher Education |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Non-categorical disability organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that primarily serves individuals who are
blind or visually impaired |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that primarily serves individuals who are
deaf or hard of hearing |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that primarily serves individuals with
developmental disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization that primarily serves individuals with
physical disabilities |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Organization focused specifically on providing AT |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Protection and Advocacy Organization |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Technology agency |
No |
No |
No |
No |
UCP |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Other |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
One central location
6. This activity is available (choose all that apply)
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
: Yes
PRATP maintains an Island-wide information and referral system to meet the needs of targeted individuals and entities in Puerto Rico. The system delivers information on assistive technology devices, AT services (with specific data regarding provider availability within the Island), and the availability of resources, including funding through public and private sources, to obtain assistive technology devices and assistive technology services. The system also delivers information on the benefits of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services with respect to enhancing the capacity of individuals with disabilities of all ages to participate in education, community living, and work.
PRATP uses a standard Information and Assistance request form to gather the consumer needs. Information and Assistance requests are received and responded via e-mail, phone, webpage or in person. Each request is evaluated to determine the best possible information source and then directed to PRATP’s clinical staff, case managers, social worker or to PRATP’s Information Center located at the main library of the University of Puerto Rico. PRATP’s Information Center has a vast collection of information resources related to AT and is staffed by full time personnel trained to handle information and assistance requests related to AT within one business day.
1. As Certifying Representative of the Lead Agency for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, I hereby assure the following. Yes
2. The Lead Agency prepared and submitted this State Plan on behalf of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Yes
3. The Lead Agency submitting this plan is the State agency that is eligible to submit this plan. Yes
4. The State agency has authority under State law to perform the functions of the State under this program. Yes
5. The State legally may carry out each provision of this plan. Yes
6. All provisions of this plan are consistent with State law. Yes
7. A State officer, specified by title in this certification, has authority under State law to receive, hold, and disburse Federal funds made available under the plan. Yes
8. The State officer who submits this plan, specified by title in this certification, has authority to submit this plan. Yes
9. The agency that submits this plan has adopted or otherwise formally approved this plan. Yes
10. The plan is the basis for State operation and administration of the program. Yes
11. The Lead Agency will maintain and evaluate the program under this State Plan. Yes
12. The State will annually collect data related to the required activities implemented by the State under this section in order to prepare the progress reports required under subsection 4(f) of the Act. Yes
13. The Lead Agency will submit the progress report on behalf of the State. Yes
14. The State will prepare reports to the Secretary in such form and containing such information as the Secretary may require to carry out the Secretary's functions under this Act and keep such records and allow access to such records as the Secretary may require to ensure the correctness and verification of information provided to the Secretary. Yes
15. The Lead Agency will control and administer the funds received through the grant. Yes
16. The Lead Agency will make programmatic and resource allocation decisions necessary to implement the State Plan. Yes
17. Funds received through the grant will be expended in accordance with Section 4 of the Act, and will be used to supplement, and not supplant, funds available from other sources for technology-related assistance, including the provision of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services. Yes
18. The Lead Agency will ensure conformance with Federal and State accounting requirements. Yes
19. The State will adopt such fiscal control and accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure proper disbursement of and accounting for the funds received through the grant. Yes
20. Funds made available through a grant to a State under this Act will not be used for direct payment for an assistive technology device for an individual with a disability. Yes
21. A public agency or an individual with a disability holds title to any property purchased with funds received under the grant and administers that property. Yes
22. The physical facility of the Lead Agency and Implementing Entity, if any, meets the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Section 4(d)(6)(E) Yes
23. Activities carried out in the State that are authorized under this Act, and supported by Federal funds received under this Act, will comply with the standards established by the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board under section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (20 U.S.C. 794d). Section 4(d)(6)(G) Yes
24. The Lead Agency will coordinate the activities of the State Plan among public and private entities, including coordinating efforts related to entering into interagency agreements. Yes
25. The Lead Agency will coordinate efforts related to the active, timely, and meaningful participation by individuals with disabilities and their family members, guardians, advocates, or authorized representatives, and other appropriate individuals, with respect to activities carried out through the grant. Yes
26. Describe how your program will conform to section 427 of General Education Provisions Act by describing the steps you propose to take to ensure equitable access to, and participation in, your program for students, teachers, and other program beneficiaries with special needs.
The Puerto Rico Assistive Technology Program at the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) will take all necessary measures to ensure all partners and subcontractors comply with the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA), section 427. The UPR ensures equitable access to and participation in all federally-assisted programs for students, teachers and other program beneficiaries with special needs. The UPR will continuously identify and eliminate barriers such as gender, race, national origin, color, disability or age that may impede equitable access or participation in these programs.
All activities and materials under federally funded programs will be developed so that individuals may be able to fully participate regardless of their disability or social background.
The UPR will ensure accessibility for persons with special needs to services and information resources by taking the following steps, among others:
- English is the official second Language in Puerto Rico. Therefore, language may not be a barrier in the majority of the cases when consumers and other interested parties request Program services. Nevertheless, assistance will be available for persons with limited understanding of Spanish or English.
- Individuals who cannot read, or have limited reading skills, will be provided alternative means such as audio, or computer-based information on program services.
- Alternate formats will be provided for individuals who are blind.
- The university based programs will systemically reach out to people in rural areas, particularly those in hard to reach areas.
- The university will make sure that all materials and services are developed and provided based on cultural needs of the people served.
- The university will ensure that programs and activities are held in physically accessible locations. In addition, will ensure that if someone needs accommodations such as sign language interpreters to effectively participate, they will be provided.
- The university will ensure that web sites are accessible and meet the federal and local accessibility standards.
27. Access Goal Table
|
Education |
Employment |
Community Living |
IT/Telecomm |
a. Long-term Goal |
70.00 |
70.00 |
70.00 |
70.00 |
b. Long-term Goal Status |
Met [d] |
Met [d] |
Met [d] |
Met [d] |
c. FY 2011 Performance |
95.28 |
95.00 |
99.31 |
100.00 |
d. FY 2012 Short-term goal |
70.00 |
70.00 |
70.00 |
70.00 |
e. FY 2012 Performance |
99.25 |
100.00 |
100.00 |
100.00 |
f. FY 2012 Status |
Met |
Met |
Met |
Met |
g. FY 2013 Short-term goal |
70.00 |
70.00 |
70.00 |
70.00 |
h. FY 2013 Performance |
97.20 |
100.00 |
98.78 |
100.00 |
i. FY 2013 Status |
Met |
Met |
Met |
Met |
j. FY 2014 Short-term goal |
70.00 |
70.00 |
70.00 |
70.00 |
k. FY 2014 Performance |
99.05 |
100.00 |
99.25 |
100.00 |
l. FY 2014 Status |
Met |
Met |
Met |
Met |
28. Acquisition Goal Table
|
Education |
Employment |
Community Living |
a. Long-term Goal |
75.00 |
75.00 |
75.00 |
b. Long-term Goal Status |
Met [d] |
Met [d] |
Met [d] |
c. FY 2011 Performance |
100.00 |
|
100.00 |
d. FY 2012 Short-term Goal |
75.00 |
75.00 |
75.00 |
e. FY 2012 Performance |
100.00 |
100.00 |
100.00 |
f. FY 2012 Status |
Met |
Met |
Met |
g. FY 2013 Short-term Goal |
75.00 |
75.00 |
75.00 |
h. FY 2013 Performance |
100.00 |
100.00 |
100.00 |
i. FY 2013 Status |
Met |
Met |
Met |
j. FY 2014 Short-term Goal |
75.00 |
75.00 |
75.00 |
k. FY 2014 Performance |
100.00 |
100.00 |
99.42 |
l. FY 2014 Status |
Met |
Met |
Met |
29. Name of Certifying Representative for the Lead Agency Maria I. Miranda
30. Title of Certifying Representative for the Lead Agency Program Director, Puerto Rico Assistive Technology Program
31. Signed? Yes
32. Date Signed 02/25/2015