The need for assistive technology (A.T.) begins with a problem. The problem is anything that hinders an individual from completing a goal. That goal may be as simple as opening a jar to taking a shower safely or accessing a computer for email. The individual may encounter the problem at home, in the workplace, or the community. I.A.T.P. staff can provide a variety of technical assistance in the form of information, referral, short-term device loans, and demonstration, all at no cost to individuals. I.A.T.P. also maintains a database of used and refurbished devices for sale or donation.
If a formal assessment is required for the purchase of assistive technology, I.A.T.P. can provide assessment services to adults for a fee.
Adult Assessment
An Assistive Technology Practitioner (A.T.P.) credentialed through RESNA (Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America) or other certification program, will perform the assistive technology assessment. Assistive Technology Practitioners have an educational background in occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, special education, or rehabilitation; ongoing work experience (.25 to .50 FTE) of direct assistive technology consumer-related services; have passed a rigorous exam on all areas of assistive technology; and have annual continuing education on assistive technology.
Adult Assessment Steps
- Fill out the Adult Assessment Application and submit the form online (it is a secure submission).
- Fees will be determined and authorization will be obtained from individual or agency.
- An A.T.P. will be assigned to the assessment.
- The A.T.P. will follow the Fundamental Assessment Process utilizing a team approach.
- The A.T.P. looks at the individual, environment, and tasks through observation, review of records, and input from the individual and others identified by the individual.
- Through a feature-matching process, potential assistive technology devices and software are identified and tried with the individual.
- The continuum of devices and software are considered to ensure cost effectiveness and identification of the most appropriate device.
- A written report will be provided within two weeks of the visit as one tool in making assistive technology decisions.
The National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (iCanConnect) will ensure that low-income individuals who have combined hearing and vision loss can access telephone, advanced communications and information services. This program was mandated by the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 and established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
The Idaho-National Deaf Blind Equipment Distribution Program (iCanConnect Idaho) is a collaborative effort between the:
- Idaho Assistive Technology Project
- Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
- Idaho Commission on Aging
- Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Idaho Education Services for the Deaf and the Blind
- Idaho Project for Children and Youth with Deaf-Blindness
- National Helen Keller Center
- University of Idaho Center for Disabilities and Human Development
Assistive technology (A.T.) is a beneficial tool for many infants and toddlers with disabilities. Assistive technology can help with developmental skills, social skills, communication ability, attention span, and mobility. Overall, A.T. has the potential to dramatically increase a child’s independence.
The assistive technology consultation process is designed to help the Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) team identify the most useful assistive tools for a specific child.
ITP Consultation
An Assistive Technology Practitioner (ATP) credentialed through RESNA (Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America) or other assistive technology certificate/certification program, will perform the ITP consultation. RESNA Assistive Technology Practitioners have an educational background in occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, special education, or rehabilitation; ongoing work experience (.25 to .50 FTE) of direct assistive technology consumer-related services; have passed a rigorous exam on all areas of assistive technology; and have annual continuing education on assistive technology.
ITP Consultation Steps
- Fill out the ITP Consultation Application and submit the form online (It is a secure submission).
- An Assistive Technology Practicioner will be assigned to the consultation.
- The A.T.P. and Infant Toddler Program representative will determine the consultation fee (~$63/hr) and issue an authorization.
- The A.T.P. will follow the Fundamental Consultation process utilizing a team approach.
- The A.T.P. looks at the child, environment, and tasks through observation, review of records, and input from the Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) team.
- Through a feature-matching process, potential assistive technology devices and software are identified and tried with the child.
- The continuum of devices and software are considered to ensure cost effectiveness and identification of the most appropriate device.
- A written report will be provided within two weeks of the visit for the IFSP team to use as one tool in making assistive technology decisions.
- Assistive technology tools may be borrowed at no cost to the IFSP team for a trial period to make sure the child will use and succeed with the recommended assistive technology. Visit Idaho.AT4All to view and request to borrow assistive technology items.
Our school-based services are provided as part of the Idaho Special Education Support & Technical Assistance (SESTA) project funded by the State Department of Education. To request an Assitive Technology related school-based service, select the applicable option on Idaho Training Clearinghouse’s Technology Learning community.