Resna atp certification
- 1. CREDENTIALING PROGRAM IN ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY RESNA Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America Web Address: www. resna.org
- 2. What is Credentialing? Act of occupational licensure or registration Licensure Certification Registration
- 3. LICENSURE Licensing applies to individuals Granted by a government body Individual meets predetermined qualifications Grants right to engage in a particular profession as defined by State Practice Act
- 4. CERTIFICATION Process by which a non-governmental agency or association validates an individual’s qualifications and knowledge in a defined functional or clinical area
- 5. REGISTRATION List maintained by governmental agency Can be equivalent to licensure May not be required for practice
- 6. WHY HAVE CERTIFICATION? Validate individual’s qualifications Carries a connotation of trust, belief, and confidence Provide practice-related knowledge-based requirements against which an individual can be assessed Requires adherence to Code of Ethics, Standards of Practice
- 7. What is RESNA? RESNA is the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. We are an interdisciplinary association of people with a common interest in technology and disability. Our purpose is to improve the potential of people with disabilities to achieve their goals through the use of technology.
- 8. Who is RESNA? Engineers Therapists Technologists Suppliers Manufacturers Educators And more…
- 9. RESNA’S CREDENTIALING PROGRAM RESNA undertook the credentialing process in 1992 to: Identify qualified providers by testing fundamental knowledge Set standards to measure competence, guide professional conduct
- 10. About RESNA Credentials Previously there were two credentials: Assistive Technology Practitioner-ATP Assistive Technology Supplier-ATS As of January 1, 2009, the two credentials were consolidated in to one certification: Assistive Technology Professional (ATP)
- 11. Assistive Technology Professional A service provider who analyzes the needs of individuals with disabilities, assists in the selection of the appropriate equipment or services, and trains the consumer on how to properly use the specific equipment.
- 12. Assistive Technology Professional The certifications were consolidated into a single Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) certification to reflect all who have demonstrated knowledge in the general categories of assistive technology. The certification will no longer be tied to role Certificants will abide by RESNA’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, which set forth the fundamental concepts of ethical conduct and practice.
- 13. CODE OF ETHICS Hold paramount the welfare of those served professionally Practice only in their area(s) of competence and maintain high standards Maintain the confidentiality of privileged information
- 14. RESNA STANDARDS OF PRACTICE Set of 22 rules to govern practice of Assistive Technology service delivery Promotes high ethical standards Stresses cooperation, team building, follow-up Promotes collaboration Encourages referral to others as appropriate Adjudication when standards are violated
- 15. Individuals shall keep paramount the welfare of those served professionally. Standards of Practice
- 16. Individuals shall engage in only those services that are within the scope of their competence , their level of education, experience and training, and shall recognize the limitations imposed by the extent of their personal skills and knowledge in any professional area. Standards of Practice
- 17. In making determinations as to what areas of practice are within their competency, assistive technology practitioners and suppliers shall observe all applicable licensure laws , consider the qualifications for certification or other credentials offered by recognized authorities in the primary professions which comprise the field of assistive technology, and abide by all relevant standards of practice and ethical principals, including RESNA's Code of Ethics. Standards of Practice
- 18. Individuals shall not willfully misrepresent their credentials, competency, education, training and experience in both the field of assistive technology and the primary profession in which they are members. Individuals shall disclose their employer and the role they serve in the provision of assistive technology services in all forms of communication, including advertising, that refers to their certification in assistive technology. Standards of Practice
- 19. Individuals shall inform consumers or their advocates of any employment affiliations, financial or professional interests that may be perceived to bias recommendations. In some cases, individuals shall decline to provide services or supplies where the conflict of interest is such that it may fairly be concluded that such affiliation or interest is likely to impair professional judgments. Standards of Practice
- 20. Individuals shall use available resources to meet the consumers’ identified needs including referral to other professionals, practitioners or sources which may provide the needed product and/or service. Standards of Practice
- 21. Individuals shall cooperate with members of other professions, where appropriate, in delivering services to consumers, and shall actively participate in the team process when the consumer's needs require such an approach. Standards of Practice
- 22. Individuals shall offer an appropriate range of assistive technology services which include assessment, evaluation, trial, simulation, recommendations, delivery, fitting, training, adjustments and/or modifications and promote full participation by the consumer in each phase of service. Standards of Practice
- 23. Individuals shall verify consumer's needs by using direct assessment or evaluation procedures with the consumer. Standards of Practice
- 24. Individuals shall inform the consumer about all device options and funding mechanisms available regardless of finances , in the development of recommendations for assistive technology strategies. Standards of Practice
- 25. Individuals shall consider future and emerging needs when developing intervention strategies and fully inform the consumer of those needs. Standards of Practice
- 26. Individuals shall provide technology that minimizes consumer’s exposure to unreasonable risk. Individuals shall provide adjustments, instruction for use, or necessary modifications that minimize risk. Standards of Practice
- 27. Individuals shall fully inform consumers or their advocates about all relevant aspects of the final recommendations for the provision of technology, including the financial implications, and shall not guarantee the results of any service or technology. Individuals may, however, make reasonable statements about the recommended intervention. Standards of Practice
- 28. Individuals shall document, within the appropriate records, the technology evaluation, assessment, recommendations, services, or products provided and preserve confidentiality of those records, unless required by law, or unless the protection of the welfare of the person or the community requires otherwise. Standards of Practice
- 29. Individuals shall endeavor, through ongoing professional development, including continuing education, to remain current on assistive technology relevant to their practice including accessibility, funding, legal or public issues, recommended practices and emerging technologies. Standards of Practice
- 30. Individuals shall endeavor to institute procedures, on an on-going basis, to evaluate, promote and enhance the quality of service delivered to all consumers. Standards of Practice
- 31. Individuals shall be truthful and accurate in all public statements concerning their role in the provision of all assistive technology products and services. Standards of Practice
- 32. Individuals shall not discriminate in the provision of services or supplies on the basis of impairment, diagnosis, disability, race, national origin, religion, creed, gender, age, or sexual orientation. Standards of Practice
- 33. Individuals shall not charge for services not rendered, nor misrepresent services delivered or products dispensed for reimbursement or any other purpose. Standards of Practice
- 34. Individuals shall not engage in fraud, dishonesty or misrepresentation of any kind, or any forms of conduct or criminal activity that adversely reflects on the field of assistive technology, or the individual's ability to serve consumers professionally. Standards of Practice
- 35. Individuals whose professional services are adversely affected by substance abuse or other health-related conditions shall seek professional advice, and where appropriate, voluntarily withdraw from practice . Standards of Practice
- 36. Individuals shall respect the rights, knowledge, and skills of colleagues and others, accurately representing views, information, ideas and other tangible and intangible assets including copyright, patent, trademark, design contributions, and findings. Standards of Practice
- 37. HOW ARE THE CREDENTIALS ACQUIRED? Complete the application and supply the documentation to show you meet eligibility requirements including education and work experience Take and pass the exam via computer-based testing centers around the world Agree to adhere to RESNA’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
- 38. HOW WAS THE EXAM DEVELOPED? Eighteen month process using professional certification consultants and widely recognized and accepted exam protocols: Knowledge/skills document developed by content experts Draft widely distributed among individuals in service delivery Input incorporated to develop National Survey of AT providers “ Practice Survey” sent to approximately 4000 individuals in various disciplines within AT service delivery Survey results used to develop test blueprint/outline
- 39. HOW WAS THE EXAM DEVELOPED? Questions directly solicited from content experts practicing in the field Test development committee screened, revise question database Passing score study after each exam to analyze questions and preliminary results to validate correct answers Exam item bank, job analysis kept current regularly
- 40. About the exam 200 multiple choice questions Broad-based knowledge across various domains Foundation knowledge: Psychology, sociology, anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, ethics, product knowledge, evaluation techniques, policy Assessment, procurement, training, outcome measurement, and professional conduct
- 41. About the Exam – Computer-Based Testing Administered through computer-based testing centers. Over 700 in North America, and over 1000 around the world through Prometric, Inc. After the application is approved, the test is available when/where the applicant wants to take it. Preliminary score report is given immediately upon completion of exam Testing centers may have evening/weekend hours
- 42. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Bachelor’s in Rehab Science, . 50 FTE in AT direct consumer-related services for a minimum of 2 years or .25 FTE for 3 years Associate’s degree in Rehab Science, 1 FTE in AT services for a minimum of 2 years or .5 FTE for 3 years Bachelor’s degree in a non-Rehab Science, .50 FTE in AT services for a minimum of 4 years Associate’s degree in a non-Rehab Science, .50 FTE in AT services for a minimum of 4 years High School degree, 1.0 FTE in AT services for a minimum of 2 years, and documentation demonstrating participation in 30 contact hours of education in AT, with a maximum of 50% delivered by manufacturers
- 43. What are the fees? Basic exam fee -- $500.00 Retake fee -- $250.00 (within one year) Re-certification -- $150 for two years
- 44. WHO OVERSEES THE PROCESS? RESNA Board of Directors Professional Standards Board – PSB Complaints Review Committee Test development (psychometric) consultants RESNA staff
- 45. HOW DOES RESNA ADJUDICATE IN MATTERS OF CERTIFICATION? Purpose of Professional Standards Board (PSB) and the Complaints Review Committee (CRC) is to set forth the requirements for: Recertification Reinstatement Adjudication of complaints against certificants
- 46. Definitions of Certification Status Pending Active Inactive Probation Suspended Revoked Ineligible
- 47. Requirement for Recertification Certification is for a two year period, and is renewed with work experience and continuing education requirements: Relevant work experience – direct AT consumer related service, academic, management, or research activities at .25 FTE for just-ending certification period Ongoing professional development – academic credits, CEU’s, or retake of the basic exam
- 48. Requirements for Reinstatement There are different requirements for reinstatement depending on the status of individual Reactivation following a voluntary inactivation Reactivation following a letter of concern Reactivation following a recertification violation Reactivation following suspension
- 49. Adjudication of Complaints If the PSB determines a certificant has not met or has breached one of the standards for initial certification or recertification, the PSB may take action to protect the integrity of the certification process and the resulting credential, up to and including permanent revocation of the credential. Actions taken by the PSB against a certificant’s credential may be reported to legitimately-interested entities, including but not limited to state licensing authorities; accrediting bodies; federal and state Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement authorities; other payors; and employers .
- 50. RIGHTS/RESTRICTIONS WITH RESNA CREDENTIALS Voluntary certification Not a license - can’t practice outside of state requirements Use of designation ATP for successful candidates
- 51. WHAT CREDENTIALING MEANS TO THE CONSUMER AND PAYOR: Demonstrated knowledge of AT Professionalism, as governed by RESNA Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics Education and experience to meet eligibility standards Professional oversight by RESNA Professional Standards Board Best practices, consumer-oriented Listing in the “Directory of Certified AT Professionals” available on RESNA Website
- 52. Others that require/desire Certification Medicare (since 4/1/08) for PWCs State medicaids – 11-12 Employers – job descriptions Voc rehab and the VA
- 53. Why Require Certification? Consumer safeguards Assurance of quality outcomes Reduces technology abandonment Reduction of other medical expenses (surgical intervention or hospitalization, caretakers, etc)
- 54. HOW TO REACH US For more information, you may contact: RESNA Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America 1700 N. Moore St, Suite 1540 Arlington, VA 22209 703-524-6686 x311 RESNA Website: www.resna.org
Editor's Notes
- #4: Licensure always trumps certification
- #7: Connotation of trust – to consumer, to employer, funding source, referrals, etc.
- #8: Talk about history a bit – 30 years old org, etc.
- #9: Practice in all areas of AT practice in various settings - research, academics, service delivery For internationalization – add relationships with other sister orgs
- #11: Add the history – why and how of consolidation
- #12: This equipment may include manual and power wheelchairs, alternate computer access, augmentative and alternative communication devices, and other technology to improve the function and quality of life for an individual with a disability *REWORK this definition*** This equipment may include manual and power wheelchairs, alternate computer access, augmentative and alternative communication devices, and other technology to improve the function and quality of life for an individual with a disability This equipment may include manual and power wheelchairs, alternate computer access, augmentative and alternative communication devices, and other technology to improve the function and quality of life for an individual with a disability This equipment may include manual and power wheelchairs, alternate computer access, augmentative and alternative communication devices, and other technology to improve the function and quality of life for an individual with a disability
- #19: Direct Communication (i.e. greeting the consumer and caregivers) Written Communication (i.e. documentation) Advertising/Marketing (i.e. business cards, letterhead etc…)
- #23: While many payers currently do not require the ATP to perform these functions in order to adhere to the RESNA Standards of Practice it is imperative as part of a best practices model for service delivery in any setting and with regard to any assistive technology recommendation. It is acceptable for the ATP to delegate some of these functions to another skilled/competent individual; however, if the ATP is receiving remuneration for the product and/or services rendered they are responsible for the task. It is also imperative for the ATP to document what was tried and failed as well as what was considered and ruled out during this process.
- #24: Direct assessment may include teleconferencing or a face-to-face encounter; however, it is unlikely that a phone interview or questionnaire alone will provide sufficient information necessary to make an equipment recommendation.
- #25: It is imperative for the ATP to use their skilled professional judgment when making equipment recommendations and NOT be caught up by what is a covered benefit or what will be paid for. The ATP must explain WHY they are making the particular recommendation, as well as the pros and cons related to the recommendation so that the consumer can make an informed choice as to how THEY want to spend their financial resources.
- #26: When considering an AT recommendation the ATP must consider current need; however it is also essential for the ATP to understand a consumer’s diagnoses, prognosis and any contributing co-morbid conditions that may affect their future AT needs. Aging with a disability is just as important to consider as the consumer’s risk for secondary medical complications or anticipated change with a progressive condition. When, where and how the AT will be used must also be taken into consideration as the recommendation may be appropriate for one environmental setting but inappropriate for another. Remember: “over prescription” is as inappropriate as “under prescription”
- #28: An ATP uses their skilled professional judgment to make AT equipment recommendations based on the features and benefits of the recommended item(s) and allows the consumer to make the financial decision as to how they want to proceed. It is the ATP’s responsibility to document the consumer’s decision relative to the AT technology recommendations they will proceed with, any AT technology recommendations they may add at a later date and any AT recommendations they elect not to pursue.
- #29: Remember: If it isn’t documented it didn’t happen!
- #32: The ATP must disclose all financial ties to the provision of AT products and services so that the consumer and public at large are aware of any potential conflict of interest.
- #38: Increased access via CBT
- #39: Re-validated every 5-7 years, update practice analysis, regularly update items – overseen regularly
- #41: List the content – areas of AT practice
- #43: Assistive Technology encompasses ANY enabling intervention from the very “low tech” curly cue shoe laces, canes, card holders and picture boards to very “high tech” wheelchairs, speech generating devices and brain interface computer access- and everything in between.
- #47: Pending - The waiting period between the time the applicant signs and dates the application to sit for the exam until the time the individual is notified that he or she has passed the exam. During this time all individuals must be in good standing with the PSB and abide by the RESNA Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Active - The two year period following successful completion of the exam or recertification requirements. Inactive - This may be voluntary, on or before the recertification date with no time line required for reactivation or involuntary at the recommendation of the Complaint Panel and/or Appeal Panel or due to recertification requirements not being met prior to the recertification deadline. Probation, Suspension or Revocation - As a result of a sanction imposed by the CRC for a violation of the RESNA Standards of Practice or Code of Ethics. The length and terms of probation will be in accordance with the recommendation of the Complaint Panel and/or the Appeal Panel. A certificate that has been revoked may not be reinstated. Ineligible - An individual will be barred from becoming certified or recertified either indefinitely or for a specified duration in accordance with the Recertification Guidelines, the Reinstatement Guidelines and/or in accordance with the recommendation of the Complaint Panel and/or the Appeal Panel.
- #48: Recertification requires that all five recertification requirements be met and that the individual is in good standing with the Professional Standards Board (PSB). The requirements are as follows: - The financial obligation to the RESNA certification program is paid in full. - The individual has submitted a signed and dated attestation statement to abide by the RESNA Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics - The individual has submitted documentation to verify the continuing education requirement is met. - The individual has submitted documentation to verify the work experience requirement is met. - The individual has updated or confirmed his or her employment contact information with RESNA. Update - Access to CEUs – what counts, in-person or online
- #49: Reactivation following a voluntary inactivation The individual may chose one of the following options to be considered for reactivation: Satisfy recertification requirements as follows: Pay the recertification fee required. Submit a signed and dated attestation statement to abide by the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Submit .25 continuing education units, or their equivalent, for each 90 days on inactive status. Pay a reactivation fee of $25.00; or Retake and pass the certification exam. Reactivation following a private or public letter of concern The individual must comply with any and all reactivation requirements outlined in the private or public notification of concern from the Complains Panel and/or Appeals Panel. Reactivation following a Recertification Violation The individual must comply with any and all reactivation requirements outlined in the private or public notification of concern and in compliance with the recertification requirement for the category of recertification violation. Reactivation following Suspension The individual must comply with any and all requirements outlined in the suspension notice. Reinstatement fee up to $1000
- #50: The RESNA Professional Standards Board (PSB) has a separate Complaints Review Committee (CRC) responsible for processing and adjudicating complaints submitted against RESNA Certificants who may be in violation of the Standards of Practice or Code of Ethics. The CRC thoroughly investigates each complaint and conducts monthly meetings, via teleconference to discuss and adjudicate each complaint in a timely manner. The complaint may come from anyone with first-hand knowledge of a potential violation. To file a complaint the complainant should download, complete and submit the Complaint Form with any supporting documentation available. Complaints may not be anonymous so that the CRC is able to conduct their investigation during the adjudication process. Also, action cannot be taken by the CRC until any legal proceedings are completed. It is vital that certificants and others report any alleged violations, misrepresentations or misconduct so that the PSB can take the steps necessary to protect the public and the value of the certification.
- #52: Beef this one up
- #53: Add states requiring certification in some for
- #54: Why is technology abandoned? List reasons here What is meant by quality outcome? What is technology abandonment