Delaware AT/DME Refurbishment/Reuse Program
Project Description:
NEED:
There are far too many Delawareans who need assistive technology/durable medical equipment (AT/DME) they cannot obtain
There's a lot of DME in attics and garages that is in good condition but no longer used by the original recipient.
That equipment can be procured, refurbished and reassigned to individuals and/or providers at significant savings to both.
GOALS/OBJECTIVES:
The overall goal is to re-establish a viable, sustainable statewide AT/DME reuse program. The objectives include:
Developing a program structure built around a collaborative network of organizations
Forming a consortium comprised of several State agencies, non-profit organizations, and DME vendors for planning
Convening and securing commitments from consortium members and others to:
- operationally define the project,
- identify risks and challenges and generate recommended solutions,
- identify and deploy resources needed to execute the program, and
- craft and submit quality funding proposal to secure financial support to establish and/or sustain the program. .
UNUSUAL FEATURES:
A previous version of the program that ran successfully for just over 2 years During that time, it collected refurbished and resold 1742 gently used/donated equipment at reduced cost—at a savings of more than a quarter of a million dollars ($753,742). While all aspects of that program were administered by a single organization, the planned program is likely to utilize a statewide network of organizations to execute elements of the program most compatible with their established operations, resources and capabilities.
EXPECTED BENEFITS:
Enhanced equipment reutilization will have numerous benefits: improved access to AT for citizens with disabilities; better utilization of shrinking health care dollars; new job training and employment opportunities; and environmentally-sound practices that keep equipment out of Delaware landfills.
Core Function(s):
Other Direct/Model Services
Area of Emphasis
Other - Assistive Technology
Target Audience:
Professionals and Para-Professionals
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Geographic Areas
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
