The Assistive Technology Blog

We received a request to post more about the professional standards in assistive technology service delivery, so here's some timely information (October 30, 2008) from RESNA, the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America.

"RESNA...announced plans to offer certification to create a stronger standard for professionals in the assistive technology field. The new designation, Assistive Technology Professional (ATP), will recognize professionals who have reached an internationally accepted standard of knowledge in assistive technology and who adhere to RESNA's code of ethics and standards of practice. The new certification will take effect January 1, 2009.

To become certified as an Assistive Technology Professional, one must be approved for and pass a 200-item examination that tests competency in the broad field of assistive technology practice. To date, there are almost 4,000 rehabilitation engineers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech and hearing pathologists, suppliers, educators and other professionals who have successfully received their certification.

“The purpose of the certification program is to promote quality assurance for the consumer, and uphold standards for competent practice in the delivery of assistive technology (AT) services,” said Anjali Weber, MS, ATP and Director of Certification, RESNA. “RESNA certification not only includes the passing of comprehensive exam, but also the commitment to abide by the RESNA Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics to ensure that individuals with disabilities are supported,” Weber explained.

The ATP certification was developed after extensive research by the RESNA Professional Standards Board (PSB), input from stakeholders, consideration of alternatives, and discussions with certificants and members took place over the past 12 months. RESNA continues to support the Rehabilitation Engineering Technologist (RET) designation as a logical next step for rehabilitation engineers. The development of additional appropriate Specialty Certifications is also planned beginning with Seating and Mobility.

Unlike the current Assistive Technology Practitioner (ATP) and the Assistive Technology Supplier (ATS), the Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) is not associated with the certificant's role (evaluation or for-profit sale). Regulations, licensure, employment requirements and policy of funding sources continue to dictate who may perform what particular service.
RESNA is a non-profit professional organization whose members serve people with disabilities seeking technology applications to maximize their ability to function in their environment. RESNA’s membership consists of researchers, clinicians, suppliers, manufacturers, consumers and educators who work in nonprofit and for-profit companies. All members are dedicated to promoting the exchange of ideas and information for the advancement of assistive technology."