Assistive Technology Guidance and Updates

 

Good afternoon,

 

We would like to share some information and reminders regarding AT to make sure we are all on the same page in regard to this service:

• Regarding the IFSP Team decision to pursue Assistive Technology, Chapter 8 of the practice manual addresses the process that IFSP Teams must follow and an example of questions to ask/answer when considering possible AT: https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/first-steps-assistive-technology-devices-considerations-ifsp-team-meetings . The questions and processes provided in the guidance must be followed when considering adding AT as a service and the justification must, at least, be included in the strategies section of the corresponding IFSP Outcome(s). The requesting provider(s) must provide the justification for the service coordinator to document in the IFSP. 
• In addition to questions to consider, there is also a list (per DESE) of approved and not approved items for AT in First steps. Please take a moment to review this list as it will be helpful when you are approaching this topic as an IFSP team. There can often be a fine line between what is considered AT and what is not, but, in addition to the list, the general rule of thumb is if it is not something related to an outcome and specifically designed/adapted for children with special needs then we cannot consider it as AT in First Steps.
• We have made some changes to our regional process for ordering/pick-up/delivery. In order to be more efficient and compliant, we may ask to have certain AT items (e.g. chewy tubes, vests, oral motor devices, adapted cups, etc) sent directly to the provider homes, in lieu of the First Steps office when at all possible. At times, we may also ask providers to pick up larger items (e.g. standers, gait trainers, mobility devices, etc) from the AT warehouse/AT provider if it cannot be delivered to the home, instead of coming to the First Steps office.
• When you are picking up AT from the office, only take items that have been set aside for you or you have made arrangements to pick up. Please do not take anything from the office without clearing it with staff. There is a sign in sheet at the front desk as well as a sign-out sheet near the admin office where the AT is kept. We have had a few AT items that have been taken accidentally and have needed to be found or reordered.
• On occasion, we may have used AT items in our inventory at the office that can be borrowed/loaned to a family on a short or long term basis. We are working on a system for tracking/checking out these items but for now, the same sign in/out process is required as described above.
• Items in the Resource Room area are not considered AT and should be checked out using the online sign-out link (https://www.jotform.com/app/210674723962157 ). AT items have been authorized and ordered via the IFSP process whereas Resource Room items have been purchased or provided via donation or fundraising.
• As always, options and ideas for low-tech items or modifications can be discussed and shared during IFSP or EIT meetings.

 

 

Howard Smith- Director Region 1     &      Christina Narasimhan- Director Region 2

St. Louis Area First Steps

680 Craig Rd., Suite 308

St. Louis MO 63141

 

(314) 453-9203 ph

(314) 453-0802 fax