Assistive Technology Services

The Resource Center for Independent Living provides access to a wide range of Assistive Technology (AT) and Durable Medical Equipment (DME) services.

Northeast Kansas Access Site for Assistive Technology for Kansans

Administered by the University of Kansas, Assistive Technology for Kansans (ATK) is a program that connects people with disabilities and health conditions of all ages with the assistive technology they need to learn, work, play and participate in the community.

As an ATK Access Site, we help to increase access to and acquisition of assistive technology devices and services to promote independence and productivity in the ares of education, employment, and community living. The assistive technology provided through this service covers a wide range of categories, including vision; hear; speech communication; mobility, seating, and position; learning, cognition and developmental; daily living; environmental adaptations; vehicle modifications and transportation; computers; and recreation, sports, and leisure.

As part of this service, we provide demonstrations of devices with a focus on helping the consumer make an informed decision. We also provide a device loan program, which allows consumer the opportunity to try a specific device or allows for a brief accommodation or a loaner during repair of another device.

In addition to these primary services, RCIL also provides information and assistance, assessment, training, public awareness and collaboration, and technical assistance.

Kansas Equipment Exchange

We participate in the Kansas Equipment Exchange (KEE), a statewide project guided by individuals with disabilities, family members and Medicaid. Durable medical equipment is purchased with public funds and loaned to Kansans, with the State of Kansas maintaining ownership, while the original consumer has the use of the equipment for as long as it is needed. The equipment is registered and identified y a tracking number, and as part of the exchange network, we help to handle the pick-up, clean-up and relocation when the equipment is no longer needed.

Durable Medical Equipment Loan Programs

Through generous donations, the Anita Casey Equipment Loan Program in Osage City and the Phyllis Patteson Equipment Loan Program in El Dorado were created to honor the memories of two dedicated RCIL supporters. As a service to the community, we have durable medical equipment available for loan, free of charge. Items available include but are not limited to: bath benches, commodes, wheelchairs, transfer benches, walkers, grab bars, and canes. We also gladly accept donations of new or gently used equipment for the loan program inventory or to give away as needed or requested.

Build-A-Ramp Program

Many Kansans with disabilities are faced with accessibility barrier that leave them unable to safely come and go from their own homes. We have committed to overcome the barrier to independent living created by inaccessibility to one’s own home by dedicating resources to the development and implementation of the Build-A-Ramp Program (BARP).

When funds and/or resources become available, the selection committee review applications and selects projects to fund based on such criteria as household income, residence in our core services area, and disability determination or demonstrated need verified by a third party.

Through the program, we, utilizing donated materials and volunteer workers when available, repair existing ramps or construct new ramps that meet the Americans with Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design.

Assistive Technology for Vocational Rehabilitation

We employ Assistive Technology (AT) Specialists who provide vocational rehabilitation payment-for-performance services including assessment, evaluation and training to help individuals obtain, retain or regain employment. The AT Specialist answers questions, provides resources, resolves problems, researches adaptive technology options, and provides Information and Referral Services.