Changes to IATP’s Programs and Services Due to COVID-19
In response to medical, public health, and other governmental recommendations regarding COVID-19, the Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) is altering its operations as follows to reduce the risk of exposure to this virus for individuals with disabilities.
At this time, IATP is suspending tours of its Assistive Technology Demonstration Center and is not accepting donations of reused Durable Medical Equipment (DME) or Assistive Technology Devices until further notice.
When possible and appropriate, IATP will make every attempt to fill customer’s requests to borrow Assistive Technology devices and reused Durable Medical Equipment (DME). Arrangements will be made to ship the equipment to the customer’s home and customers picking up reused DME will have to follow the CDC’s recommendation of social distancing of no less than 6 feet.
In addition, IATP will not conduct AT Assessments for VR customers and students ages 3-21 through the Governor’s recommended date of April 7, 2020.
Also, IATP is canceling its staff’s planned participation as presenters, exhibitors, and participants at indoor events, which anticipate attendance over 250 individuals, as recommended by the Governor until further notice.
And finally, IATP is postponing its Assistive Technology Open House and celebration of more than 30 years of service, which was planned for March 31, 2020.
IATP apologizes for any inconvenience these actions may cause but feels that it must do its part to reduce the spread of COVID-19. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call 217-522-7985.
Illinois Assistive Technology Program
The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) is the non-profit organization designated as the Statewide AT Program funded under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as amended. IATP’s lead agency is the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services.
IATP’s mission is to increase access to and the acquisition of Assistive Technology (AT) devices and services for individuals of all ages with disabilities. IATP provides AT information and services in the areas of education, employment, community living, and IT/telecommunications. Our goal is to improve the quality of life of all Illinoisans with disabilities and enable them through greater access to assistive technology devices to fully participate in all aspects of life. We believe disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes a person’s right to:
- enjoy full inclusion and integration in mainstream society;
- benefit from an education;
- pursue meaningful careers and;
- enjoy self-determination and make choices.
IATP provides the following core programs: AT Demonstrations; AT Device Loans; AT State Financing, AT Reutilization. IATP also provides Information and Assistance, Training and Technical Assistance on a variety of AT topics, as well as, collaborates with state agencies and disability organizations statewide to improve and expand policies and practices to include greater access to and funding for AT.
What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
Assistive technology device.–The term `assistive
technology device’ means any item, piece of equipment, or product
system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is
used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of
individuals with disabilities.
Assistive technology service.–The
term `assistive technology service’ means any service that directly
assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition,
or use of an assistive technology device.
Annual Report
IATP 2019 Annual Report (PDF)
