Date: Monday, November 15, 2021
Category: General

RESNA and the DMERT Group are announcing a new partnership that will result in an exciting career pathway to becoming an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP).

This new program will allow DMERT Level 2 Repair Technician Certificate holders to continue their professional career development by gaining the training and necessary skills to successfully become an ATP.

There is a growing need for durable medical equipment and complex rehab technology (CRT) repair technicians, as technologies become more intricate and complex. The DMERT Group’s Level 1 and Level 2 Certificate programs ensures that technicians have a solid understanding of DME and CRT equipment. Trained repair technicians improve client safety, save their employers money, and increase customer satisfaction.

RESNA’s ATP Certification recognizes demonstrated competence in analyzing the needs of consumers with disabilities, assisting in the selection of appropriate assistive technology for the consumer’s needs, and providing training in the use of selected device(s). Accredited by NCCA, the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, the RESNA ATP Certification adheres to quality standards that help ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public. Currently, there are approximately 4,200 certified ATPs working in assistive technology in the US and Canada. Certified ATPs can have a variety of different backgrounds, but must fulfill educational and work eligibility requirements, and pass a rigorous exam that tests competency in the broad field of assistive technology practice.

RESNA and The DMERT Group expect this program to be ready for enrollment by the Fall of 2022. There will be a general information session at ISS in Pittsburgh January 2022 and at the RESNA Conference in Arlington, Virginia in July 2022. The two organizations also plan educational sessions and online webinar support throughout the next 12 months to explain this pathway in-depth as the course development progresses.