Initiative Description
DakotaLink partners with the State Department of Human Services to offer training to Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors across the State regarding their established procedure for delivering Assistive Technology devices and services to their clients. South Dakota employs an electronic Referral Process that grants consumers access to Assistive Technology assessments, equipment, and training. DakotaLink has collaborated with the Department to create a Program Guide, and some adjustments to the policy have been made to simplify the process. The initiative is supported by AT Act Funding.
Lessons Learned/Replication
We utilize Survey Monkey to distribute surveys to individuals engaged in business with DakotaLink. We achieve a response rate of approximately 60%, with 82% of the feedback being positive. The clear procedural outline enhances the efficiency of delivering assistive technology to people with disabilities. Engaging directly with our referral sources has proven to be more effective than other methods. This endeavor will persist and be adjusted as necessary in the future. We conduct this training at least once annually to address staff turnover and ensure that the process is functioning as intended.