Assistive Technology/Seating & Wheeled Mobility SIG

Mission & Objectives

The mission of the Assistive Technology/Seating Wheeled Mobility (AT/SWM) SIG is to create a collaborative forum for educating physical therapy professionals, encouraging the exchange of ideas and fostering an arena of support for the practice of assistive technology/seating & wheeled mobility.  We will facilitate the gathering of PTs and PTAs with a common interest in assistive technology/ seating and wheeled mobility practice to improve evidence-based practice, discuss legislative and regulatory issues and concerns, and participate in education and research activities related to AT/SWM.

Background

Due to the aging of the US population and the increased longevity of individuals with disabilities, reliance on many types of assistive technologies exists and will continue to grow.  Physical therapists serve this population in many settings, including hospitals, in-patient rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, out-patient clinics, school systems and home care. 

The AT/SWM SIG is dedicated to working closely with the Neurology section and the members of the various SIGs.  Our goal is to insure that individuals with disabilities be afforded the opportunity to benefit from the provision and use of assistive technology and appropriate seating/wheeled mobility necessary for optimal mobility, alignment, comfort, function, independence and quality of life.

Objectives 

COMMUNICATION

RESEARCH

• Collaborate with clinical researchers and practitioners to advance evidence-based physical therapy and outcome measurement for the application of assistive technology/seating and wheeled mobility products and services.

• Establish collaborative interdisciplinary relationships with other AT/SWM organizations. 

• Collaborate with SWM clinicians and researchers to identify research needs and priorities for evidence based practice.

• Provide evidence to demonstrate the value of AT/SWM services and products.

• Develop outcome measures for use in AT/SWM practice

EDUCATION

• Solicit, create, deliver and evaluate innovative and accessible educational offerings to promote evidence based practice of seating and wheeled mobility.

• Increase the availability of pre-professional and post-professional training opportunities in the area of seating and wheeled mobility.

• Provide educational resources regarding funding and documentation specific to seating and wheeled mobility practice.

ADVOCACY

• Advocate for client access to appropriate quality AT/SWM products and services

• Provide clinical guidance to policy makers and legislators to support access to medically necessary and appropriate AT/ SWM services and devices.

• Address legislative and regulatory concerns related to AT/SWM practice and access

• Provide advocacy materials and teach members how to advocate for appropriate access to services and AT devices

• Teach clinicians how to engage consumers and other stake holders to advocate for their AT needs.