The RT News
Newsletter of Division 11
Fall 2001
Association for the Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired
Message from the Chair: A Tribute to Dr. Tom (1941-2001)
As we struggled to apply task analysis to his daily life - a process he understood very well - he used to reference Ockham's Razor, the principle proposed by William of Ockham in the fourteenth century: "Pluralitas non est ponenda sine neccesitate," which translates as "Entities should not be multiplied unnecessarily." However, as a rehabilitation specialist, I was much more comfortable with Albert Einstein's interpretation: "Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler." Einstein's (and Dr. Tom's) adage could serve as an excellent motto for we Rehabilitation Teachers, don't you agree?
Today, I received a telephone call informing me that Dr. Tom, my brilliant friend and diligent student, had died in his sleep last night. He was an extraordinary person, and I will miss his wit, his devastating intelligence, and his struggle to come to terms with a life that was challenging and unpredictable on his very best days. During many of our sessions, he used to ask why there were so few trained Rehabilitation Teachers available when the need for our services was so compelling. I couldn't answer him satisfactorily, of course, but I used to tell him about an emerging professional specialization that we called the "Rehabilitation Teaching Assistant" or RTA. Dr. Tom thought that was a fine idea, and we in Division 11 concur. At present, we are working to develop a document that will specify the job description and training requirements for this new professional, and during the next several months, you will be asked to render your opinion on this issue as well.
Our profession continues to develop at an astonishing pace: At present, there are 618 ACVREP-Certified Rehabilitation Teachers (RTCs), and for the first time, our profession will be listed in the 2002 Edition of the Health Professions Career and Education Directory. Our Division membership remains strong at 455 and our eight-month-old Website at www.RehabilitationTeaching.org is thriving.
In this issue, you can learn about the latest developments in Medicare vision rehabilitation legislation, as well as opportunities to volunteer for a range of committees that will influence the course of our professional discipline for many years to come. And, lest you think that your Division 11 officers are all work and no play, be sure to check out our new promotional items, especially the travel coffee mug emblazoned with the official RT logo, Website address, and contest-wining slogan.
Dr. Tom would be pleased, I think.
Maureen A. Duffy, RTC
Chair, Division 11 2000-2002
SHOPPING
NECKCORDS: New design: White with blue lettering, inscribed with "Rehabilitation Teaching" and "www.rehabilitationteaching.org" $3.00
RT T-SHIRT: Cream colored, Hanes polo style T-shirt, with "Rehabilitation Teaching" embroidered in Hunter green over the left chest. Sizes medium and x-large only. $20.00
MOUSEPAD: Royal blue with the wording " Rehabilitation Teaching, a profession with a past and a future" SALE $3.00
"RTs Are Really Terrific" pin: Round, white, with dark blue lettering $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00
Make your check payable to AER, Division 11. Please add $3.50 for shipping and handling.
Send your orders to: Maureen Duffy, PCO Dept. of Graduate Studies in VI, 8360 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027-1598, w (215) 780-1362, maduffy@aol.com or mduffy@pco.edu
MEET A MEMBER:
Mark Gilley, RT from Tennessee
I became a Rehabilitation Teacher because I became disenchanted with the Memphis City school system at about the time a position opened up at Memphis Goodwill Industries. I love to teach.
How long have you been a Rehabilitation Teacher/vision rehabilitation professional?
It will be two years on July 4th.
Tell us about your current job.
I teach visually impaired individuals at Memphis Goodwill Industries. A little ADL, more technological accommodation, quite a bit of computer skills, and considerable academics, including remedial academics. In a roundabout way, I also contribute to job readiness.
Tell us something special about yourself.
I study Chess, classical music, UFOs, and philosophy. In politics I am a fire-breathing Liberal.
Why did you join Division 11?
I joined Division 11 because it is the professional organization of the field I have chosen (or which has chosen me.)
Product Review: Olympus VN-180 - Digital Voice Recorder
Western Michigan University, MI
sandra_sommi@hotmail.com
Digital Voice Recorder
Olympus VN-180
Olympus America
Two Corporate Center Dr.
Melville, NY 11747
Ph. 800-622-6372
www.olympusamerica.com
List Price $79.98
Weight: 2.3 oz. (65g) including battery
Dimensions: 4.6" (L) x 1.6" (W) x 0.6" (D)
Recording time: up to 180 min.
Recording media: built-in flash memory
Accessories: Earphone, and External Microphone
The idea of trying this product came to me when I saw myself working as an itinerant RT for two different offices/counties, with a busy caseload, teaching both groups and individuals at home, and training for a new computerized database, in addition to many other job/personal related activities. Once I read: "Never underestimate the power to the mind to forget."
Keeping track of appointments, to do's at work and home, business meetings, school lectures, or even personal notes, phone numbers, and special dates are a hard job for anyone. While driving, eating lunch or waiting in line, I founded myself unable to take advantage of that time when old or new information was coming to my mind. Having note pad and pen available all the times is almost impossible. Writing and driving don't go together. Using my car or office phone to leave a message in my mailbox was also very distracting and time consuming.
It was very difficult to find a device that I could use anytime, anywhere without looking at it or stopping whatever I was doing at the moment. I was looking for something small, light, portable, affordable, good quality, and very easy to use. I though about a digital recorder right away, I even mentioned to my supervisor and she though that it could be a good idea even for her.
- NOTE: I am not recommending driving and recording/playing at the same time. If you are using this device while driving, do it at your own risk.
PRODUCT OVERALL DESCRIPTION:
The VN-180 is a compact, lightweight file management facilitator with three separate folders (A, B and S) for storing up to 100 independent messages each (combined recording time=180 minutes) with high-quality digital sound. Some of the features include an LCD display providing valuable information such as remaining recording time, voice activation mode, the date & time, play mode (SP/LP) and battery status; schedule recording with message alarm playback; recording with VCVA (Variable Control Voice Activator); hold button to lock the keys; and power safe after 60 minutes.
ACCESSORIES INCLUDED WITH THE Olympus VN-180:
Wrist strap and a pocket clip to make it easier to carry around, instruction manual in four languages, and two AAA batteries.
AVAILABLE OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES:
External microphones for conference or low-noise recordings (ME-4 external microphone, ME12 Noise-Cancellation Microphone, or ME-7 Conference Microphone) and Earphones for private playback of messages or recordings (E-98 Mini Earphone, E-92 Headset, or E-99 Stereo Headset).
POWER SOURCE:
Strengths:
- It takes two AAA batteries (LRO3 or RO3), which last for approximately 40 hours of continuous use. The battery compartment, located on the back, includes a ridged pointed arrow to help locate and open the lid; Lid slides in and out with a soft push using only one finger, and the insertion/removal of the batteries is simple. Does not need sighted assistance.
- AAA batteries are inexpensive compared with the round, camera type batteries which are very expensive and not easily available everywhere.
- The remaining battery power is shown on the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) when in the stop mode holding down the stop button.
- Rechargeable batteries can be used.
- It does not come with an external AC adapter jack. It only runs with batteries.
- The remaining battery power feature beeps when changing modes, holding down the Stop button, but the display is totally visual and useless for a visually impaired person. Must have sighted assistance to take advantage of this feature.
- After the batteries have been installed for the first time or replaced, the LCD indicates the (CLOCK ADJUSTMENT) mode and the user has to adjust the mode to the current time. When entering the time it beeps when changing from hours to minutes, to year, to month and day, but the actual numbers are visually display. Must have sighted assistance to take advantage of this feature.
Strengths:
- It visually displays: Current folder (A, B or S); Voice-actuated recording indicator; Remaining battery power; Current message number, recording/playback/fast forward/last reverse indicators; Current date and time; Remaining memory (REMAIN); Recording date/time (REC DATE); Menu mode indicator; Remaining message time; Recording mode (SP or LP); Alarm.
- It beeps to enter a new mode but the actual reading it is totally visual. Does need sighted assistance.
Operational buttons/controls/switches
Strengths:
- The “Hold” switch is easy to find on the left side of the recorder, under the Pocket clip. It only has two positions, “up” or “down,” and it clicks. When activated, or “up,” the recorder is lock and all the buttons are disabled to prevent accidental pressing of buttons that can activate undesired operations. Recommended when carrying the recorded in a bag or pocket. Does not need sighted assistance.
- The “Volume” control is easy to find on the right side of the recorder. There is nothing else on that side. It only turns, “up” or “down.” Turn it “down” for less volume, and “up” for high. Does not need sighted assistance.
- There are two different sizes of oval shape buttons “STOP” and “PLAY” STOP is bigger than PLAY.
- There are three same sizes, medium round buttons: “FAST REVERSE” “FAST FORWARD” and “REC.” Very easy to operate and ID. Does not need sighted assistance.
- There are two same size, small round buttons: “MENU/FOLDER” and “ERASE.” The erase button is yellow, and the menu/folder is gay.
- “STOP,” “PLAY” and “RECORDING” ID can be easily remembered even without adaptations.
- Buttons are very flat and difficult to find, especially the smallest ones: “BACK,” “FORWARD, ” “MENU/FOLDER” and “ERASE.” The problem was solved when the device was adapted using small, clear round Bump-Dots over each button, which perfectly fit even over the smallest ones without operational interference.
- The “ERASE” button is yellow and very small, kind of difficult to press when found directly to the left from the STOP. Best if adapted for easy ID and operation.
Strengths:
- Built-in microphone which when Voice Activation mode is turned on, lets the VN-180 begin recording once the microphone senses sound. Easy to find.
- 23mm diameter dynamic internal speaker.
- External noise is recorded along with your voice. To minimize, use external microphone.
Strengths:
- External Microphone/Earphone Jacks allows the user to plug in an external microphone for conference or low-noise recordings and to plug in an external earphone for private playback of messages or recordings. Does not need sighted assistance.
- Only small size available.
Strengths:
- Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button; it beeps once when in folder “A,” twice when in folder “B,” and three times when in folder “S” (Schedule management). Folder “A,” is the default folder. The LCD displays the current folder.
- Messages can be arranged independently in each folder. For example, you can use “A” for work, “B” for personal use. Does not need sighted assistance.
- Folder “S” is design for use in the schedule management. Customized Multiple Message Alarms allows up to 20 recordings to each be played automatically at a specific time set by the user, to serve as a reminder or alarm for meetings and important dates. Excellent information is available in the operational manual. Does not need-sighted assistance but learning of the steps is required.
- Use the “FAST REVERSE” or the “FAST FORWARD” buttons to move inside one folder. Going from one message to the previous or next, it beeps once with a high pitch. When it reaches the last message, either going forward or backwards, it beeps twice with a low pitch. Does not need sighted assistance.
- Did not have time to evaluate Folder “S” in detail at this point in time. This is a more sophisticated feature that needs to be set step by step. Because all the displays are visual, the user with no sight will have to learn how many times the buttons have to be pressed in the menu mode to achieve the required entry.
- It requires sight to be able to read how many messages or the message number on the display screen. Solution: a visually impaired user will have to count the messages by high pitch beeps, and it will be able to know if at the end or beginning because of the 2 low pitch beeps. Must cycle through all messages within a folder to locate a specific one.
Strengths:
- These operations can be performed at any time if location of buttons and functions are already memorized. The three buttons have different shape and or size, and form a reverse triangle near to each other. Sight is not necessary even without adaptations. NOTE: I am not recommending driving and recording/playing at the same time. If you are using this device while driving, do it at your own risk.
- The RECORDING (REC) button is located directly to the left from the “PLAY” button. To record short messages, select the folder (A, B or S) using the “MENU/FOLDER” button and then press the “REC” button once to start recording. To end recording, press the “STOP” button. Does not need sighted assistance.
- If instead of several short related messages (for example, from same client) you want to record one long message, press the “REC” button again instead of the “STOP” to get to the “PAUSE” mode, and press “REC” button again to continue recording. To stop recording press the “STOP” button. Does not need sighted assistance.
- The playback or “PLAY” button is located directly on top of the “STOP” button and directly to the right of the “REC” button. Select the folder (A, B or S) using the “MENU/FOLDER” button and then press the “PLAY” button once to playback. To end playback, press the “STOP” button. While playing back, press the “PLAY” button again to “PAUSE” and once more to continue playing. To end playback before the end of message, press the “STOP” button. Does not need sighted assistance.
- Fast playback requires holding the “PLAY” button for more than four seconds to achieve 30% faster playback speed. Does not need sighted assistance.
- The “STOP” button will stop operations and beep twice.
- If the “STOP” button is pressed by itself when in standby mode, it will show on the screen remaining recording time and remaining battery power beeping once to access the new screen and twice to get back to default.
- Road noise is recorded while driving and interferes when message is retrieved. The use of the earphone allows you to decrease the volume and reduce the noise.
- It is difficult to get used to the fact that you have to Press “STOP” instead of the same button when playing back or recording in order to end. If the same button is pressed twice, it gets into “PAUSE” mode.
- Remaining recording time and remaining battery power are completely visual.
Strengths:
- The “FAST REVERSE” button is located under the “ERASE” button (left side of recorder), and the “FAST FORWARD” button is located under the “STOP” button (right side of recorder). They are both round and same size and color. These two buttons allow the user to move from message to message forward or backwards. Does not need sighted assistance. Easy to find, especially if adapted.
- The “ERASE” button is yellow and located directly to the left from the “STOP” button. User can erase a single message or all the messages in the selected folder. Does not need sighted assistance. Best if adapted.
- To erase a single message, press the “MENU/FOLDER” button to select the folder. Use “FAST REVERSE” or “FAST FORWARD” to locate the desired folder and then press the “ERASE” button once. It will beep twice with high pitch -for visual users, the words (ERASE) and (YES) are displayed on the LCD. Press the “ERASE” button again to actually erase the message-it will beep twice with a lower pitch.
- To erase all the messages, press the “MENU/FOLDER” button to select the folder. Press and hold the “ERASE” button for more than four seconds. It will beep twice with a high pitch to enter in the (single message erase mode) and twice again with a high pitch to enter in the (erase all mode). The word (ALL) blinks and the LCD shows (ERASE) and (YES) alternatively. Within for seconds press the “ERASE” button again, and the LCD blinks (ERASE) and all the messages in the selected folder will be erased beeping twice with a low pitch.
- The LCD display is both visual and audible. Number of beeps either high or low pitch, will help a visually impaired user to ID the different stages within an operation.
- For better performance of these operations and easier ID location of buttons adaptations were necessary. Do not need sighted assistance but better performance when you can pay more attention.
- The “ERASE” button is yellow and very flat and small, which does not help anyone, especially if visually impaired. Best if adapted.
Recording mode (MODE) SP/LP - Microphone sensitivity (MIC)
Strengths:
- Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button for more than 4 seconds-it beeps twice with a high pitch. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to start the recording mode setting. SP mode is the default: recording time app. 67 min. Press the “FAST FORWARD” button once to change it to LP: recording time app. 180 min. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to complete setting. Press the “STOP” button to end.
- Is set in SP, less recording time is available. Display is visual; need sighted assistance to find out current status.
- For a visually impaired user is essential to know the step-by-step sequence and how many times the “MENU/FOLDER” button needs to be pressed to get to the (MODE) setting, because the display is totally visual.
Strengths:
- Voice Activation mode lets the VN-180 (when turned ON) begin recording automatically once the microphone senses sound. When the voice input stops, the recorder automatically stops recording.
- To activate, press the “MENU/FOLDER” button for more than 4 seconds-it beeps twice with a high pitch. Press the “FAST FORWARD” button twice to select the (VCVA) setting. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to enter the (VCVA) screen. Press the “STOP” button to complete the setting. Press the “REC” button and when voice is detected automatically starts recording the red LED indicator lights. When the voice stops, the recording stops and it gets in standby mode with a blinking red indicator and the VCVA words also blinking.
- To deactivate the VCVA press the “STOP” button.
- The red light indicator is not helpful for visually impaired users.
- It is very sensible so any noise activates the automatic recording.
- Display is visual; need sighted assistance to find out current status.
- For a visually impaired user is essential to know how the step-by-step sequence and how many times the “FAST FORWARD” button needs to be pressed to get to the (VCVA) setting, because the display is totally visual. In this case is twice.
Strengths:
- Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button for more than 4 seconds-it beeps twice with a high pitch. Press the “FAST FORWARD” button once to get to the MIC setting. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to start the setting. HI mode is the default. Press the “FAST FORWARD” button once to change to LO. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to complete setting. Press the “STOP” button to end.
- Even in low sensitivity, any noise will activate the VCVA.
- Display is visual; need sighted assistance to find out current status.
- For a visually impaired user is essential to know how the step-by-step sequence and how many times the “FAST FORWARD” button needs to be pressed to get to the (MIC) setting, because the display is totally visual. In this case is only once.
Strengths:
- Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button for more than 4 seconds-it beeps twice with a high pitch. Press the “FAST FORWARD” button three tines to get to the (ALARM) setting. Every time the “MENU/FOLDER” button is pressed, the date/time items start to blink in order of “month,” “date,” “hour,” and “minute.” Visually set the desired date/time by pressing the “FAST FORWARD” and/or “FAST REVERSE” buttons. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to complete setting. Press the “STOP” button to end.
- Display is visual; need sighted assistance to find out current status.
- For a visually impaired user is essential to know how the step-by-step sequence and how many times the “FAST FORWARD” button needs to be pressed to get to the (ALARM) setting, because the display is totally visual. In this case is three times.
- AM is the default. PM changes only when time reaches 12 noon.
Strengths:
- Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button for more than 4 seconds-it beeps twice with a high pitch. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button is pressed, the default is (OFF). To change to (ON) press the “FAST FORWARD” and/or “FAST REVERSE” buttons. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to complete setting. Press the “STOP” button to end. LCD displays a letter “S” inside a circle, which means that the alarm is activated.
- Display is visual; need sighted assistance to find out current status.
- For a visually impaired user is essential to know how the step-by-step sequence and how many times the “FAST FORWARD” button needs to be pressed to get to the (ALARM) setting, because the display is totally visual. In this case is four times.
Strengths:
- Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button for more than 4 seconds-it beeps twice with a high pitch. Press the “FAST FORWARD” button five times to get to the BEEP setting. On mode is the default. Press the “FAST FORWARD” button once to change to OFF. On mode beeps once, OFF mode does not beep. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to complete setting. Press the “STOP” button to end.
- When beep is set in (OFF) no beep tone will be produce when pressing a button (the alarm tone will still be generated).
- For a visually impaired user is essential to know the step-by-step sequence and how many times the “FAST FORWARD” button needs to be pressed to get to the (BEEP) setting, because the display is totally visual. In this case is five times.
Strengths:
- Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button for more than 4 seconds-it beeps twice with a high pitch. Every time the “MENU/FOLDER” button is pressed, the date/time items start to blink in order of “hour,” minutes,” “year,” “month,” and “day.” Visually set the desired date/time by pressing the “FAST FORWARD” and/or “FAST REVERSE” buttons. Press the “MENU/FOLDER” button again to complete setting. Press the “STOP” button to end.
- Display is visual; need sighted assistance to find out current time.
- If you press the “STOP” button during clock adjustment, settings will be cancelled.
- If no buttons are pressed for 3 minutes during clock adjustment, settings will be cancelled.
- For a visually impaired user is essential to know the step-by-step sequence and how many times the “FAST FORWARD” button needs to be pressed to get to the (TIME) setting, because the display is totally visual. In this case is six times.
- User should be totally sighted or have good usable vision.
- User should have a large volume scheduling needs (perfect for RTs)
- Not recommended for a visually impaired user because of many limitations. User must have sighted support system available initially and any time a visual setting needs to be adjusted.
- User must get in the habit of carrying the device all the time.
- Higher functioning individual who is somewhat electronically savvy would be helpful; however, not a necessity
- Good hearing is important.
- The major differences between voice recorders were price, recording time, storage in only one or several folders, storage media, and required batteries.
- The major problem: remember to take it with me all the time.
- Power save feature: when 60 minutes have passes with no activity, the machine gets into the (power save mode) in order to save battery. To exit, press any button.
- Specific information about the Olympus VN-180 Digital Voice Recorder was obtained from both the instruction manual and the Olympus Website: www.olympus.com.
SUMMARY:
The Olympus VN-180 Digital Voice Recorder appears to have potential for a certain population of sighted professionals with a necessity for it (it is perfect for me as an RT because of my busy schedule and my total dependence on to do lists). For the majority however, remembering to carry the device all time is going to be a major inconvenience (like leaving the shopping list at home). To justify the cost of the device, it would be important that the professional is really committed to make a habit of it, and carry it all the time. The device is easy to use, fairly easy to set, and really helpful (especially after visiting a client and getting in the car recording all important information to be typed/written in client’s file, and/or equipment to order, appointments to make, plan for next session, etc.). Sound and quality of recording/playback are acceptable; Low battery display and the power save options are very helpful; too bad that it does not have the capability to plug an AC adapter. Total recording time is more than enough (if messages are checked daily/weekly, and erased after accomplishment).
I highly recommend this device as a tool to minimize time, maximize quality and quantity of important information, keep organized and don’t forget anything. But remember, it will not work if you don’t carry it always with you.
Division 11 Officers for 2000-2001:
Chair-elect: Bruci Hawkins, 1002 E. Shore Dr., Ithaca, NY 14850, (607) 277-5436; BruciHawkins@aol.com
Secretary/treasurer: Mary Beth Harrison, 2955 Lincoln Avenue, North Riverside, IL 60546 (708) 447-5765; marydoug@chicagonet.net
Past Chair: Lisa-Anne Mowerson, 121 Locust Court, Pittsburgh, PA, (412) 635-7318; LASM@worldnet.att.net
Internet Resources: Optics and Low VisionMaureen A. Duffy, M.S., RTC
http://www.obase.net/diopters.htm
Diopters/Snellen Acuity Conversion Chart
http://www.lpf.com/source/rk/20something.html
The Inverse Square Law and Light
http://pegasus.phast.umass.edu/a100/handouts/inverse/inverse.html
The Inverse Square Law and Light (with diagrams)
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/vision/isql.html#c1
LVRGNet: The Low Vision Research Group Network
http://www.varrd.emory.edu/LVRGNET/index.html
OcularTimes.com: The Amsler Grid
http://www.geocities.com/ocular_times/amsler.html
OcularTimes.com: How to Interpret an Eyeglass Prescription
http://www.geocities.com/ocular_times/glasses.html
OcularTimes.com: Refractive Errors
http://www.geocities.com/ocular_times/referror.html
Conference Announcements
Rehabilitation Teaching Mobile-ized for the 21st CenturyNov. 1-3, 2001, Mobile, Alabama
Association of Southeast Rehabilitation Teachers
(ASERT) and Mid-American
Conference of Rehabilitation Teachers (MACRT)
For more information about this conference contact:
Sue Dalton, 815-226-3302
The Fifth Biennial Conference
Getting in Touch with Literacy
Conference Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
November 8-11, 2001
Wyndham Franklin Plaza Hotel
Conference registration information please contact Diane P. Wormsley, 215-780-1366 or dwormsley@pco.edu
Medicare Bill
Lisa-Anne
Mowerson with assistance from Dona Sauerburger
When the 106th Congress ended, the Medicare bill died, but the achievements of the Co-op and its allies, including AER and Division 11, provided a strong foundation to continue the efforts in the 107th Congress. There was an active, experienced grassroots network and strong advocacy infrastructure, and 115 of the bill cosponsors have returned to Congress. A side benefit of this effort was an increased awareness of our profession by related professionals, a goal that we consider very important. However one of the factors that thwarted the smooth passage of the previous bill was opposition from national organizations of professions such as optometrists, ophthalmologists, and occupational therapists. This year, Rep. Capuano brought these organizations together with the Co-op and worked out a new bill that will achieve everything we had hoped for and more.
Currently, Medicare reimbursement for vision rehabilitation services, such as O&M, is not mandated federally, and thus it is provided on a state-by-state basis. However in the states that provide it, only those professions that already qualify for Medicare reimbursement can be reimbursed for those services, and O&M specialists are NOT currently qualified for Medicare reimbursement. This means that Medicare reimbursement for vision rehabilitation is provided in less than half the states, and Rehabilitation Teachers cannot qualify to provide it, although occupational and physical therapists can!
The details of the new bill have been worked out and the features are breathtaking and historic. If this bill passes, Rehabilitation Teaching services provided by RTCs will be reimbursable. It is unprecedented that Medicare would reimburse professions that are not licensed in any state, and vision rehabilitation services, including Rehabilitation Teaching, will be reimbursed in ALL states.
Your Division 11 Executive Committee unanimously supports the concepts of this bill as it has been developed, and the AER Board unanimously endorsed it as presented May 17. The following article by Lorraine explains more about the bill and may answer some of your questions.
The Medicare Vision Rehabilitation Services Act of 2001 (HR 2484)
Q & A for The RT News
Lorraine Lidoff
Director, National Vision Rehabilitation Cooperative
This legislation will accomplish two things:
It will ensure Medicare reimbursement for vision rehabilitation services by establishing national coverage policy. This means that the Medicare carriers (the insurance companies that handle payment for Medicare Part B services) in all states will recognize vision rehabilitation services as medically necessary and will reimburse eligible Medicare providers for them. Currently, carriers in some states will pay for these services; others will not.
It will add qualified vision rehabilitation professionals - rehabilitation teachers, orientation and mobility specialists, and low vision therapists - to the Medicare program as eligible providers. This means that, for the first time in history, Medicare could reimburse the services of professionals like you, similar to the services of other allied health professionals.
What are the benefits of HR 2484?
For consumers who have functional vision impairment and are Medicare beneficiaries, the legislation will greatly increase access to specialized vision rehabilitation services by establishing a secure new funding source. Vision rehabilitation services will be reimbursable by Medicare, just as rehabilitation services for a broken hip or a stroke are already covered. Access and continuity of care will be significantly increased in another way too: Once vision rehabilitation professionals become Medicare providers, you will be part of the health care system. You will be on the radar screens of physicians, and referrals will increase.
Further, since Medicare often leads the way for benefit expansions in Medicaid and private health insurance, the legislation may open the door to increased funding for services to people of all ages with vision impairment.
For Rehabilitation Teachers, the legislation will enhance your visibility and credibility by establishing you as health care providers. Your qualifications and skills will be recognized by the health care system. Medicare reimbursement will help support existing jobs and create new job opportunities, as funding will be available to pay for specialized services to the older adult population.
Medicare reimbursement will promote recruitment into the vision rehabilitation professions. For university personnel preparation programs, the legislation will increase the number of people who wish to become trained as RTs and to qualify for certification, thus fueling a much-needed increase in demand. In addition, the legislation will increase the demand for continuing education to refresh and expand skills and knowledge.
What is the relationship between this legislation and licensure?
Medicare typically requires all eligible providers to be licensed by the state in which they practice. Because RTs, O&Ms, and LVTs are not yet licensed in any state, the National Vision Rehabilitation Cooperative worked hard to make the case that other criteria could be used to ensure that vision rehabilitation professionals are highly qualified to provide a high standard of service. Those criteria, which are enumerated in HR 2484, include an educational requirement, a clinical practicum requirement, and passage of the national examination administered by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP).
Can an RT who doesn't meet these requirements still become a Medicare provider?
The legislation would not provide for variation from the basic requirements. However, special situations - such as the possibility of grandfathering in people who transferred one of the old AER certifications - can be addressed in the regulations that are issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (formerly the Health Care Financing Administration), once a statutory (legislative) change in Medicare has been enacted. AER and ACVREP are specifically listed in HR 2484 as organizations that must be consulted in developing the regulations, and these organizations should take an active role.
Why are occupational therapists named in the legislation?
Occupational therapists, optometrists, and ophthalmologists are all named in the legislation. These professionals are already eligible Medicare providers (OTs and MDs since the inception of Medicare in 1965, and ODs more recently). They are permitted to provide services that are covered under their respective licenses and covered by Medicare procedure codes. The legislation does not open new doors to these providers but simply acknowledges this reality. The legislation does open the door for RTs, O&Ms, and LVTs, and puts them onto the Medicare playing field for the first time.
What changes will Medicare eligibility make in your role and duties as an RT?
The legislation will not directly affect your services to consumers who are not Medicare beneficiaries, or services you provide that have a vocational or educational purpose.
Every funding source has its own requirements, and Medicare is no exception. Medicare-covered services will be provided under a plan of care signed off on by a physician (an optometrist or an ophthalmologist), who will also provide oversight and periodic reviews of progress. Services provided will be documented using existing Medicare procedure codes. Note that these are general rehabilitation codes. There is no code for RT per se, but there are codes that will clearly be applicable to the services you provide - for example, for services to improve functional performance, for self care and home management training, and for community integration.
How can you help?
Please send a letter to your Congressional Representative, asking him or her to cosponsor HR 2484. You can do this easily from our Web site, www.medicarenow.org.
Do you have other questions? Comments? Please feel free to contact Lorraine Lidoff at llidoff@att.net.
Division 11 Committees
Maureen A. Duffy, RTC
History and Archives Committee
The History and Archives Committee is being broadened to include three major projects: a written history of Rehabilitation Teaching (in progress), an Oral History Project (explained in this issue), and an Archival Project. This committee will oversee the collection of materials, equipment and information related to the history of Rehabilitation Teaching, and will act as a liaison to the institution or agency responsible for maintaining and cataloguing the Rehabilitation Teaching archives.
Composition:
Chair Maureen Duffy or Secretary/Treasurer Mary Beth Harrison Chair-Elect Bruci Hawkins, liaison to the Division 11 Board Committee members for the written history document are Susan Ponchillia, Chair; Taletha Crawley, Elizabeth Lennon, Maureen Moscato, David Search, Alvin Roberts, and Anne Yeadon.
The Oral History Project is intended to be a grass-roots effort to seek out and interview older service providers, educators, and consumers who are willing to provide first-hand accounts of the beginnings of our profession.
The purpose of the Archival Project is to establish a location to house Rehabilitation Teaching materials in a permanent, secure, climate-controlled environment.
Inservice Training Committee
Committee members will serve for six-year terms, with two members rotating off the committee at the conclusion of each biennial conference. The committee is responsible for strengthening professional performance in the field of Rehabilitation Teaching by promoting and developing inservice training programs.
Composition:
Chair-Elect Bruci Hawkins
At least five additional members
Marketing (and Recruitment) Committee
This committee is responsible for the development and dissemination of information to increase awareness of and support for Rehabilitation Teaching by other helping professions and the general public. The Rehabilitation Teaching Website (www.RehabilitationTeaching.org) will be maintained and updated by this committee.
Composition:
Chair Maureen Duffy
Four additional members
Publications Committee
This committee is responsible for the preparation and distribution of the Division 11 newsletter, the RT News, as well as additional publications to be offered for sale by Division 11.
Composition:
Past Chair Lisa-Anne Mowerson
Four additional members
Membership Committee
This committee will seek ways to increase active participation in Rehabilitation Teaching activities through Division 11 membership.
Composition:
Past Chair Lisa-Anne Mowerson
Four additional members
Program and Conference Committee
This committee is responsible for working with the AER Program Committee in planning, coordinating, and presenting general programming and sessions of interest, including Division Day, to Division 11 members at the biennial conference.
Composition:
Chair-Elect Bruci Hawkins
Three additional members
Awards Committee
This committee will solicit and receive nominations for the Bruce McKenzie Award and Recognition Certificates and determine the recipients in accordance with the criteria adopted by Division 11. This committee may plan and implement other programs to recognize outstanding contributions to Rehabilitation Teaching with the approval of the Division 11 Board.
Composition:
Chair-Elect: Bruci Hawkins
Two additional members
Nominations Committee
This committee will prepare a slate of candidates for Chair-Elect and Secretary-Treasurer to be presented at the next Division 11 election at the biennial conference.
Composition:
Past Chair Lisa-Anne Mowerson
Two additional members
University Personnel Preparation Committee
This committee is responsible for evaluating and approving all current Rehabilitation Teaching University programs in the United States and Canada, in accordance with guidelines and criteria that have been approved by Division 11 and AER.
Composition:
Barbara Hunt, Chairperson
Chair-Elect Bruci Hawkins, liaison to the Division 11 Board
Other members as assigned, as required by the University Personnel Preparation Guidelines
RTA Standards Committee
This committee is responsible for the development of practice standards for Rehabilitation Teaching Assistants (in progress), as well as guidelines and approval processes for RTA training programs.
Composition:
Donald Golembiewski, Chairperson
Chair Maureen Duffy, liaison to the Division 11 Board
Committee members: Diane Weiss, Donald Golembiewski, Cherie Caprera, Berenice Donald, Millie Eads
Certification Committee
Past Chair Lisa-Anne Mowerson will act as liaison to the ACVREP Board in order to discuss issues and concerns that arise in relation to Rehabilitation Teaching certification. The member composition and function of this committee will change, since AER no longer provides RT certification.
State Chapter News
New York State “RT BLITZ”
Susan Hart, MS, TVI, RTC
New York State Division 11 Chair
The event commences with a Friday evening “get to know each other” session. Activities include the “RT Olympics”, in which teams perform RT tasks under blindfold, and vision-related trivia contests. On Saturday, guest speakers present a variety of vision-related rehabilitation topics, chosen by attendees in accordance with their professional interests. The evening concludes with a hayride and movie, which must include a portrayal of a blind character. On Sunday morning, a division business meeting is conducted and the “RT of the Year” award is presented, followed by a round table session of problem solving and resource solutions.
Attendance at the Blitz can be applied toward certification or re-certification through ACVREP. Attendees agree that getting to meet and work with colleagues statewide is a wonderful morale booster that provides a supportive group environment and promotes professionalism and personal growth.
HOLD THE DATE!
July 16th, 2002
Division Day
at the International AER Conference in Toronto
An entire day just for RTs!
Earn CEUs Share resources Get connected
ORAL HISTORY PROJECT
Bruci Hawkins, RTC, COMS
Because we want to create a historical archive of these interviews, we are developing a questionnaire. Anyone interested in participating in the Oral History Project would be asked to use the final questionnaire and, following guidelines provided, interview suitable candidates. The interview would be recorded on cassette tape that would be sent to Division XI, transcribed, and made available for any number of uses in the future.
The first step, of course, is finalizing the questionnaire. Take a moment and ask yourselves “If I could have a conversation with the people who were actually present in the beginning of services to blind and visually impaired adults, what would I want to know?” Below you will find the questions I have suggested. Are there other questions you would like to ask, or perhaps suggest a different wording of a question?
SURVEY QUESTIONS:
- Introductory details (name and date-of-birth of interviewee, date/time/place of interview, name of interviewer)
- What was your earliest experience with services to adults with visual impairments (e.g. home teacher, consumer, educator, administrator)
- CONSUMER: At what age, approximately, did you begin receiving services?
- OTHER: Approximately what year did you become involved?
- What kinds of training were available at that time?
- Who provided the services?
- What kind of training (and from whom) did they receive before they began instructing others?
- Where were the services provided to consumers?
- How were people informed about the availability of services?
- How would you say things have changed for people with visual impairments since then?
- What advice would you give to service providers today?
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
Adult Life Product Focus
Mary T. (Terrie) Terlau, Ph.D., Adult Life Project Leader
Department of Educational Research
The American Printing House for the Blind
(502) 899-2381 Tterlau@aph.org
In order to develop products that can solve real problems and/or add to the quality of life for persons who are visually impaired, we must have a solid, accurate understanding of what people actually need and want. Rehabilitation teachers possess a huge wealth of knowledge about what is really needed. Many of you may regularly find yourself wanting an easier way to teach a particular skill or wishing that there was a product that could allow a visually impaired person to more effectively accomplish a specific life task. You may also have developed unique solutions to many of these challenges (i.e., made your own product that was not commercially available).
I would very much like to open lines of communication with any of you who are interested in products for blind/visually impaired adults. I am extremely interested in your thoughts and perspectives about product needs and problem solutions. I invite you to contact me with any thoughts about products that you might need or that you have created, or about anything else that might be relevant to the needs of adults who are visually impaired. Remember that products can be devices, information (e.g., books for consumers), teaching curricula, etc. Also consider needs of the entire visually impaired adult population (e.g., persons with additional disabilities, persons for whom English is a second language, senior citizens, etc).
As we explore areas in which products might be developed, we will be putting Needs Assessments and other types of surveys on the APH web site. If any of you would be willing to complete the current survey, just point your web browsers to www.aph.org/edresearch/parents_form.html
Note: This article originally appeared on the RT Listserv.
Celebrate!
Sept. 12th: National Vision Rehabilitation Day
Oct. 7-13th: White Cane Awareness Week
November: Diabetes Awareness MonthSpringboard!
Springboard, a standing column in Re:view, brings together effective ideas from practitioners, the real experts providing services to persons who are visually impaired. Through Springboard, we present brief descriptions of activities, systems, approaches, product applications, anything that works to get the jobs of education and rehabilitation done! We publish solid ideas that can serve as “springboards” for others working in out field.Send your ideas to:
Mary Nelle McLennan
Mac@aph.org