Enabling appropriate personnel skill-mix for progressive realization of equitable access to assistive technology
Date
2018Author
Smith, Emma M
Gowran, Rosemary Joan
Ennion Wegner, Liezel
Wu, Sam
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Background and Methods: This paper reviews the current capacity of personnel in enabling access to
assistive technology (AT) as well as the systems and processes within which they work, and was reviewed,
discussed, and refined during and following the Global Research, Innovation, and Education in Assistive
Technology (GREAT) Summit.
Findings: Key concepts addressed include a person-centred team approach; sustainability indicators to
monitor, measure, and respond to needs for service design and delivery; education, research, and training
for competent practice, using the six rehab-workforce challenges framework; and credentialing frameworks.
We propose development of a competence framework and associated education and training programs,
and development and implementation of a certification framework for AT personnel.
Conclusions: There is a resolve to address the challenges faced by People globally to access assistive
technology. Context specific needs assessment is required to understand the AT Personnel landscape, to
shape and strengthen credentialing frameworks through competencies and certification, acknowledging
both general and specific skill mix requirements.