atra

ATRA signs onto the CCD Transportation Task Force Final comments to the Temporary Exemption from Various Requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for an Automated Driving System

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:30:59 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto on to the CCD, DAC , and allies' response to the request for information on the administration's "CRUSH" initiative

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:32:22 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD DD, Autism support letter FY2027 Appropriations for Critical Programs for People with Disabilities and Families

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:24:55 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD DD, Autism, Family Support Task Force FY27 Approps Sign-On Letter

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:40:11 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

Response to CCD Letter on "Special Needs" that ATRA signed onto in October 2025

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:34:30 GMT

Read the response letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD Letter to House and CCD Letter to Senate FY2027 for increased funding for the U.S. Access Board

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:28:21 GMT

Read the support letter to the House HERE !

Read the support letter to the Senate HERE!

ATRA signs onto CCD Letter to Senate FY2027 for the Assistive Technology (AT) Programs

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:22:38 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD Letter to House FY2027 for the Assistive Technology (AT) Programs

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:21:48 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR/HAB Coalition Comments re HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027 Proposed Rule

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:37:56 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Collaboration to Promote Self-Determination (CPSD) letter to preserve and protect the U.S. Department of Education

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:25:58 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Long-Term Supports & Services Task Force of CCD letter to CMS regarding implementation of the new HCBS waiver authorized by HR 1

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:23:18 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto ITEM Coalition Support for S. 3138, the Veterans SPORT Act

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:49:42 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto ITEM Coalition Support for H.R. 6835, the Veterans STAND Act

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:48:19 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation Support for H.R. 5940/S. 3480, the Seniors Deserve SMARTER Care Act

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:46:39 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR Letter in Support of Passage of the Senate FY 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 14:37:37 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR Letter in Support of Reinstating CARF's Vital Services within the VA

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 19:40:30 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD Response Letter to the Reintroduction of the 21st Century Dyslexia Act

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 16:37:02 GMT

ATRA signs onto CPR support letter for S. 2898, the Dennis Benigno Traumatic Brain Injury Program Reauthorization Act of 2025

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 16:33:35 GMT

Read the s upport letter HERE !

ATRA supports CCD Statement on Transfer of Education Dept programs to Other Agencies

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 15:48:27 GMT

ATRA signs on to letter to The Department of Education Condemned for Ending Support for Students with Disabilities

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 16:31:45 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition Funding Concerns letter

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 20:19:27 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Disability & Aging Collaborative and CCD Support Letter re: Community Engagement Requirements

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:46:18 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD Education Task Force support letter The Use of the Phrase “Special Needs” in Official U.S. Department of Education Communications

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 20:58:56 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD Education Task Force support letter for The Importance of State Assessments and Strong Accountability for Students with Disabilities

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 18:42:57 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Disability and Aging Collaborative (DAC) of the CCD support letter for Protecting Healthcare and Lowering Costs Act of 2025

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 18:38:06 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR Comments in Response to the Contract Year 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 17:51:05 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto DAC/CCD LTSS Comment Submitted on Application of FLSA to Home Care Workers

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:19:04 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR letter of concern to CMS regarding the Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction (“WISeR”) Model

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 16:58:42 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD letter on ED-AI Priority

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 17:54:36 GMT

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto Final CCD Tech Task Force Letters on FY2026 AT Act Funding

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:48:40 GMT

Read the letter to the House HERE !

Read the letter to the Senate HERE !

ATRA Signs onto CCD letter with update to FY 2026 appropriations

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:43:20 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

July Blog! The Often-Unrecognized Engine of Health Equity

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:49:23 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA Signs onto CPR Letter of Support for the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 02:09:01 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto CCD DD, Autism, FS Task Force Letter for Full Funding of the UCEDDs in FY26

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:06:40 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto CCD DD, Autism, FS Task Force Letter for Full Funding of the UCEDDs in FY26

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 13:36:36 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto Joint CPR and HAB Coalition Response to Medicaid Cuts in Senate Finance Committee Budget

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 13:46:35 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto CCD Education Task Force comments letter on ED Secretary priorities 2025

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:27:29 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto the Final Senate Budget Reconciliation Letter

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 17:30:33 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto the National Respite Coalition Final Letter to the Hill for FY 2026 Lifespan Respite and NFCSP funding

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 20:11:04 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto the DRRC Support Letter for Disability/Rehabilitation Research at NIH/NCMRR in FY 2026

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 20:07:13 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Advocacy Call to Action:DOE Direct Rule on Accessibility

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:28:11 GMT

Read the Call to Action HERE !

ATRA Signs onto the Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation (CPR) comments re: Medicare Program; Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System for Fiscal Year 2026 and Updates

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 23:22:36 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

June Blog! From Leisure to Legacy: The Deeper Purpose of Recreational Therapy

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 18:03:01 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA Signs onto Disability Organizations Request for Funding for NIDILRR in FY 2026 Budget

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 16:42:00 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto DAC and CCD support letter outlining concerns on the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” because of harmful cuts and changes to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA)

Tue, 27 May 2025 18:55:04 GMT

Read the updated support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto support letters for H.R. 2199/S. 1173, the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act

Fri, 16 May 2025 17:14:52 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto the Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation (CPR) Welcome Letter and Meeting Request to Discuss the Value of Rehabilitation Therapy Services Education Task Force (FY) 2026

Mon, 12 May 2025 19:08:58 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA in Action: April 2025 Advocacy & Legislative Update

Wed, 07 May 2025 15:12:05 GMT

Read the Update HERE !

ATRA Initiates support letter to US Secretary of Health & Human Services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Wed, 07 May 2025 15:07:27 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

May Blog! The Quiet Genius of Microadventure in Recreational Therapy

Wed, 07 May 2025 14:57:03 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA Signs onto the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Education Task Force (FY) 2026 Labor, HHS, Education, and Related Services appropriations bill letter

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:58:04 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto letter of support for the continued implementation of the HCBS settings rule

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 17:00:12 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA presents at Social Prescribing USA Community of Practice Meeting

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 15:45:26 GMT

Dawn DeVries, ATRA's Director of Advocacy & Legislative Affairs presented at Social Prescribing USA's Community of Practice meeting. Dawn shared how as a profession, recreational therapists utilize elements and aspects of social prescribing with various groups of people with disabilities and various conditions, using different interventions from nature, coping, and arts. View the recording here and read the blog post here .

ATRA Signs onto ITEM Coalition letter of support for H.R. 2320, the Mobility Means Freedom Tax Credit Act

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 01:27:31 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

April Blog! From Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur: Real-World Advice for Starting a Recreational Therapy Practice

tara.shibbani@gmail.com (Tara Shibbani) — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 19:50:34 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA in Action: Restructuring of Health & Human Services Agencies – Dissolving The Administration For Community Living (ACL) and Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA)

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 22:51:36 GMT

Read the Update HERE !

ATRA Signs onto Disability Community Support Letter for Proposed Anti Obesity Medications Coverage Expansion

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 18:17:46 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto DRRC Urgent Request for Reconsideration of Reorganization of Administration for Community Living (ACL)

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 15:35:34 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) letter of support for the Administration for Community Living (ACL)

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 15:31:54 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA in Action: March 2025 Advocacy & Legislative Update

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 15:01:15 GMT

Read the Update HERE !

ATRA Signs onto ITEM Coalition letter of support for H.R. 1971, the Veterans SPORT Act

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:50:48 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA in Action: Advocacy & Legislative Update on call to action on the dismantling of The US Department of Education (DOE)

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 19:17:01 GMT

Read the Update HERE!

ATRA in Action: Advocacy & Legislative Update on concerns for the downsizing of The US Department of Education (DOE)

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 18:45:45 GMT

Read the Update HERE !

ATRA Signs onto DRRC Support Letter for Strategic Plan for Disability Health Research

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 17:04:49 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Initiates and Signs onto support letter for the inclusion of Recreational Therapy and Creative Arts Therapy on the VA Exemption List

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:45:53 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA in Action: Advocacy & Legislative Update to Support Recreational and Creative Arts Therapies Within The Department of Veterans Affairs

tara.shibbani@gmail.com (Tara Shibbani) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 20:33:25 GMT

Read the Update HERE !

ATRA Signs onto support letter for the Endorsement of the Lifespan Respite Care Program Reauthorization Act

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:05:52 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

A letter from ATRA on Protecting Recreational Therapy—How We Can Take Action!

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 01:30:23 GMT

Read the Letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto support letter for the Prevention and Public Health Fund

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 17:45:07 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto ITEM Coalition Support for Mary Ann Clark’s Nomination to Serve on the Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee (MEDCAC)

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 16:14:02 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA comments on SECTION 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Lawsuit

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:49:03 GMT

Read the full comments HERE !

Advocating for You: ATRA’s Latest Updates on Policy & Legislation

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:44:43 GMT

Read the Updates HERE !

ATRA 2025 Advocacy Priorities

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:22:38 GMT

Read the Priorities HERE!

ATRA Signs onto Disability and Rehabilitation Coalition (DRRC) comments regarding the indirect cost policy change at the National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:16:59 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE!

February Blog! The Perfect Complement: Recreational Therapy and Language Learning

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 17:56:42 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA Signs onto final ITEM Coalition’s Wheelchair Repairs and Maintenance Policy Recommendations

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:00:33 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto final CPR Comments on the CY 2026 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Proposed Rule

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:35:31 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

January Blog! The Intersection of Social Prescribing and Recreational Therapy in Modern Healthcare

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 21:58:26 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA Office Holiday Hours

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 16:58:06 GMT

T he ATRA Office will be closed from December 24, 2024 to January 2, 2025 for the holidays. We look forward to connecting with you in the New Year!

December Blog! The Role of Recreational Therapists in Supporting Patients During the Holiday Season

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 20:07:17 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA Signs onto final comments to CMS on Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) requirements in Medicaid and CHIP

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:34:02 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto ITEM Coalition Letter to House and Senate Leadership in Support of Legislation to Ensure Continued Durable Medical Equipment Access for Medicare Beneficiaries

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:33:56 GMT

Read the full support letter HERE !

Geographically Accessible Clinical Experiences

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 02:52:34 GMT

Geographically Accessible Clinical Experiences

ATRA is aware of the U.S. Department of Education's new regulation requiring institutions to provide geographically accessible clinical or externship placements within 45 days of students completing their required coursework. After reviewing the specifics of this ruling, we do not anticipate any significant impact on recreational therapy (RT) internship programs. RT internships already operate within established frameworks that align with these expectations, ensuring students have access to the placements needed for successful program completion. ATRA remains committed to supporting RT educators and students in navigating any changes that may arise. ATRA will continue to monitor this and other legislation that impacts the profession and provide accurate and timely information as it arises.

November Blog! Bridging Fun and Accessibility: Why Theme Parks Need Recreational Therapists

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 18:16:15 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA signs onto comments on the HHS Notice of Benefit Payment Parameters for 2026 proposed rule

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 17:18:20 GMT

Read the Memo HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR Comments in Response to Proposed Data Collection on Proprietary Guidelines and Medicare Advantage Plan Audit Protocol

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 17:18:09 GMT

Read the Memo HERE !

ATRA signs onto DRRC comments on the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development’s (NICHD) Request for Information for the strategic plan

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:40:16 GMT

Read the Memo HERE !

October Blog! Imagination, Humor, and Help: Coping with Disaster as a Recreational Therapist

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 16:37:04 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA signs onto CPR Comments on Service Level Data Collection for Medicare Advantage Plans

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:59:34 GMT

Read the Memo HERE !

ATRA members receive discount on Sagamore Venture Publishing purchases!

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:43:56 GMT

Check out the available products at Sagamore Venture Publishing here !

ATRA signs onto CPR and HAB Coalition Follow Up Letter to Meeting on Therapy Caps under ACA Plans

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 17:57:17 GMT

Read the Memo HERE !

Congrats DC! DC is going to become our newest licensed District for Recreational Therapy!

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 20:34:19 GMT

The District of Columbia (DC) has achieved RT licensure!

We extend our gratitude to ATRA member, Charles Bond, for his efforts and dedication

that led to this accomplishment.

You can read the bill HERE on page 23 that includes recreational therapy as

requiring a license to practice in DC!

There will be details to follow on the processing of licenses and

please contact Charles Bond with questions.

September Blog! Reflecting on 40 Years of Progress: ATRA's Anniversary Celebration in Kansas City

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 15:55:12 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA signs onto DRRC Response to “Reforming the National Institutes of Health: Framework for Discussion”

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 17:57:10 GMT

Read the Memo HERE !

ATRA summary memo of the U.S. Department of Justice’s (“DOJ”) recently finalized rule under title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) to improve access to medical diagnostic equipment

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 20:29:53 GMT

Read the Memo HERE !

ATRA signs onto Joint ITEM/CPR Coalition Comments on Proposed Rule Updating Title II Regulations: Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability; Accessibility of Medical Diagnostic Equipment

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 20:22:47 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE !

August Blog! Exploring the Edges: Understanding the Personal and Professional Implications of Dark Leisure

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:59:02 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

Addressing Isolation and Loneliness Through Recreational Therapy

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 14:22:55 GMT

Read ATRA's Latest Blog HERE

ATRA signs onto ITEM Coalition Letter to CMS re: Standing Systems in Group 3 Power Wheelchairs

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 14:35:03 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

June Blog: The Fix is In: Nature as a Prescription for Health & Wellness

dyann@atra-online.com (Dyann Serravillo) — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:36:34 GMT

Read ATRA's June Blog HERE

ATRA Advocated in favor of Utah Bill HR 0315 which Passed to provide Medicaid Reimbursement for Recreational Therapy Services for multiple service settings

dyann@atra-online.com (Dyann Serravillo) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:34:33 GMT

Good news from Utah! Utah Bill HR 0315 Passed to provide Medicaid Reimbursement for Recreational Therapy Services for multiple service settings including:

—Behavioral health programs

—Youth residential treatment facilities

—General acute hospitals

—Intermediate care facilities

—Assisted living facilities

—Skilled nursing facilities

—Psychiatric hospitals

—Mental health agencies

—And other settings that provide mental health services

This is the first time recreational therapy (RT) services have received Medicaid reimbursement in above settings (primarily “stay facilities” like hospitals and residential settings) in the country.

Medicaid waivers for Recreational Therapy services started in 2024 and the first approved RT Medicaid reimbursement happened on Friday March 29th of this year! We look forward to hearing updates from Utah as this new funding source continues to positive impact clients across the state!

Review HR 0315 HERE

ATRA Signs onto CPR Coalition comments to CMS Fiscal Year 2025 Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System

dyann@atra-online.com (Dyann Serravillo) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:28:00 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA Signs onto Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation (CPR) Response to the Request for Information on Medicare Advantage Data (CMS–4207–NC)

dyann@atra-online.com (Dyann Serravillo) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:25:51 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA Signs Joint Item/CPR Coalition Comments on Proposed Rule updating Section 504 regulations on Non Discrimination in Health Programs & Activities

dyann@atra-online.com (Dyann Serravillo) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 14:54:35 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Review the Fact Sheet HERE

ATRA Signs on to ITEM Coalition sign-on letter urging Congress to fund Medical Research Program (CDMRP)’s Orthotics and Prosthetics

dyann@atra-online.com (Dyann Serravillo) — Thu, 16 May 2024 14:50:01 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA Older Adult Task Force Statement on Social Isolation

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 20:01:46 GMT

ATRA's Older Adult Task Force created the following statement as an initiative to advocate for the importance of recreational therapy services for addressing social isolation for older adults. Education about recreational therapists' ability to directly contribute to the MDS' new focus on social isolation during our nation's "epidemic of loneliness" is detailed in the statement below.

ATRA Statement on RT's Addressing Social Isolation

ATRA Signs on to CCD Letter in Support of the Restores Act

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 20:10:11 GMT

Read the Letter Here

CPR and ITEM Coalitions Comment on Accessible Medical Diagnostic Equipment

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 23:06:14 GMT

Read the Support Letter Here

Joint ITEM/CPR Coalition Comments on Proposed Rule; Accessibility of Medical Diagnostic Equipment of State and Local Government Entities

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 21:50:22 GMT

Read the Comments Here

ATRA signs Mental Health Liaison Group (MHLG) letter to reauthorize the Substance Use Disorder Prevention That Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients &Communities Act (SUPPORT Act)

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 22:04:09 GMT

Read the Support Letter Here

Joint HAB/CPR Coalition Comment Letter on the CY 2025 NBPP Proposed Rule

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 15:05:49 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

CPR Comment Letter On CY 2025 Medicare Advantaged Proposed

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 15:11:27 GMT

Read the full letter HERE

ATRA Signs on to DRCC Letter Re: Proposed Changes to Disability Questions in 2025 Survey

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 03:34:28 GMT

Read the Letter HERE

ATRA Announces that the Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act (HR6110) Has Been Introduced

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 03:12:17 GMT

YOUR ADVOCACY IS NEEDED!

ATRA has been busy advocating for you! Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT) and Glenn Thompson (R-PA) recently introduced the bipartisan Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act of 2023.

Why does this matter? Currently, Recreational Therapy (RT) is not included as a qualifying therapy under the “Three-Hour Rule” established by CMS, which states that patients receiving care in an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) must engage in at least three hours of intensive therapy per day.

This omission means that patients receiving care at IRFs are unlikely to receive RT services even when they would benefit from them. Further, this also means that IRFs are less likely to employ Recreational Therapists, who bring an abundance of specialized skills and expertise to the treatment team.

HR 6110 returns authority to the physician and rehabilitation team in an IRF to determine the right mix of therapies for an individual to meet the intensity of therapy requirements—including Recreational Therapy. This legislation will help increase patient access to RT where appropriate and ensure that patients have a rehabilitation plan designed to best meet their needs.

Now is the time to act! The bill has just been introduced, and we need cosponsors to build momentum. To support HR 6110, please email a letter to your representatives urging them to become cosponsors by using the draft template we prepared for you at this link.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE. TAKE ACTION. ADVOCATE HERE!

ATRA Signs On To DRRC Response Letter to the NIH Mission Statement

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 15:37:55 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA Signs On to DRCC Limb Loss & Preservation Registry (LLPR) Support Letter

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 15:41:48 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA Signs Onto Joint ITEM/CPR Coalition Comment Letter on Section 504 Proposed Rule

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:56:22 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA Signs On to DRRC Comment Letters on Section 504 Proposed Rule

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:52:37 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

DRRC Comments on Proposed Rule Updating Section 504

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:33:39 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA Offers International Knowledge Exchange Recorded Presentations as Free Resource

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 16:00:27 GMT

View the presentations HERE!

ATRA Signs Support Letter for the Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 14:47:18 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA ANNUAL IN TR CALL FOR PAPERS

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 05:07:23 GMT

SAGAMORE VENTURE ANNOUNCES THE MARCIA CARTER SCHOLARLY MANUSCRIPT AWARD WINNER

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 05:19:05 GMT

As of 2023, in addition to the monetary award that accompanies this honor, the Marcia Carter Scholarly Manuscript Award Winner’s Manuscript will be granted the status of open access. This will also apply to the previous award winners and their articles from 2018-2023 listed below.

NEW OPEN ACCESS ARTICLES

Kids B.E.A.R. Pain: A Pediatric Psychosocial Chronic Pain Protocol

Shay Dawson, Eric Scott, Lisa Elder, Edna Omodior, Auriel Holman Harrison

Therapeutic Recreation Journal , 57 (2), 2023 pp. 173-198.

Feasibility of the Children’s Health Questionnaire for Measuring Outcomes of Recreational Therapy Interventions in Autism Populations

Lisa Mische Lawson, Kayla Hamner, Mildred Oligbo

Therapeutic Recreation Journal , 55 (3), 2021, pp. 249-263.

Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Profile of Undergraduate Therapeutic Recreation Students

Dawn DeVries, Teresa Beck

Therapeutic Recreation Journal , 54 (3), 2020, pp. 243-258.

Impact of a Pilot Adaptive Sports Intervention on Residents at a Skilled Nursing Facility

Leandra A. Bedini, Laura E. Kelly, Kate McKenzie, Kathryn L. Mitchell

[Special Issue ATRA Annual], Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 53 (4), 2019, pp. 340-367.

Pain Management in Recreation Therapy Practice

Judy S. Kinney

Therapeutic Recreation Journal , 53 (1), 2019, pp. 1-21.

Recreation Therapists’ Knowledge and Attitudes toward Pain

Judy S. Kinney

[Special Issue ATRA Annual], Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 52 (4), 2018, pp. 309-328.

CRITERIA FOR THE MARCIA CARTER SCHOLARLY MANUSCRIPT AWARD:

The Marcia Carter (formerly NART) Scholarly Manuscript Award is a peer-review award that recognizes one manuscript annually from the Therapeutic Recreation Journal-Annual in Therapeutic Recreation (Volume 56, Numbers 3 and 4 [2022] and Volume 57, Numbers 1 and 2 [2023]) that exhibits outstanding literary contribution to the profession of therapeutic recreation/recreational therapy as demonstrated by the following:

Exhibits exemplary contribution to the knowledge base and or best practices through research, theory, or evidence-based practice
Exhibits exemplary adherence to research and writing protocols appropriate to the nature of the manuscript
Presents innovative model, practice, and/or resolution of need or issue that advances quality of recreational therapy interventions and services
Presents justification, rationale, evidence from research, and/or practice that advances recreational therapy outcomes providing evidence for the profession’s contribution to health
Facilitates advancement of the APIE-D process through improved accountability and efficacy
Enhances the theoretical foundation of therapeutic recreation/recreational therapy practices
Fosters practices that address a broad clientele spectrum contributing to inter-professional outcomes

ATRA ENDORSES THE OUTDOORS FOR ALL ACT

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 05:13:15 GMT

Click here to read everything you need to know about the Outdoors For All Act

Click here to read the Bill

DRRC APPLAUDS DESIGNATION OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AS A "HEALTH DISPARITIES POPULATION"

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 05:23:20 GMT

Read the Letter HERE

ATRA SIGNS ON TO ITEM COALITION LETTER TO DOJ RE: PROPOSED RULE ON WEB ACCESSIBILITY

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 05:26:40 GMT

Read the full letter HERE

WHERE ARE MY CEU'S? ATRA INFO VIDEO PROVIDES ALL THE INFO!

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 05:35:24 GMT

OUR VIDEO HERE EXPLAINS IT ALL!

INTERNATIONAL KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE - FREE VIRTUAL PRESENTATIONS ABOUT TR ON A GLOBAL SCALE

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 05:30:36 GMT

For session details see the Full Program HERE

ATRA ANNOUNCES COMMITMENT TO THE KENNEDY FORUM'S ALIGNMENT FOR PROGRESS MOVEMENT FOR MH & ADDICTION

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 05:39:29 GMT

For more information on the Kennedy Forum's

Alignment for Progress Movement Click Here

Inpatient Rehab Therapy Including RT Shared as Testimony at Recent House Ways and Means Committee

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 02:22:55 GMT

Read the Testimony HERE

RECREATIONAL THERAPY INCLUDED IN THE DEFINITION STATEMENT ABOUT EQUINE ASSISTED SERVICES DUE TO ATRA

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 05:44:50 GMT

Read the Definitions Guide HERE

CCD TASK FORCE SIGN ON LETTER URGES REAUTHORIZATION OF THE CARES ACT

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 05:48:43 GMT

Read the Letter HERE

ATRA SIGNS ONTO HAB COALITION COMMENTS ON STLDI PROPOSED RULE

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 05:51:56 GMT

Read the Letter HERE

DISABILITY RIGHTS EDUCATION & DEFENSE FUND UPCOMING RALLY AND PERFORMANCE ART PIECE

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 05:55:26 GMT

More information available here

ATRA SIGNS ON TO ITEM LETTER ON PROPOSED DEFINITION OF AN ORTHOTIC BRACE

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 06:00:20 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA SIGNS ON TO ITEM COALITION TCET LETTER TO CMS

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 06:05:28 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF RECREATIONAL THERAPISTS (NART) 2023 AWARD RECIPIENTS!

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 06:16:13 GMT

OPT IN TO RECEIVE TEXT MESSAGES FROM ATRA!

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 06:19:23 GMT

We're so excited to set up text message campaigns—and to get started, we need your help! You already love getting our Week in Review email, conference updates, and more...how about receiving a text message from ATRA about once a month with discounts or reminders?

Opt in HERE to provide your mobile number so you can receive our messages!

ATRA SIGNS ON TO CCD COMMENTS RE: ENSURING ACCESS TO MEDICAID SERVICES

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 06:25:54 GMT

Read Full Comments HERE

ATRA SIGNS ONTO CCD COMMENTS RE: MEDICAID MANAGED CARE PROPOSED RULE

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 06:22:12 GMT

Read Full Comments HERE

JUST RELEASED: PHYSICAL ACTIVITY GUIDELINES FOR AMERICANS MIDCOURSE REPORT ON OLDER ADULTS

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 06:31:16 GMT

Read the full report HERE

ATRA SIGNS SUPPORT LETTERS AGAINST THE TELEHEALTH BENEFIT EXPANSION FOR WORKERS ACT

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 06:37:01 GMT

Read Support Letter HERE

ATRA SIGNS ONTO ITEM COALITION SUPPORT FOR HR 4315 (MEDICARE ORTHOTICS)

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 06:40:00 GMT

Read Support Letter HERE

ATRA MET WITH THE WHITE HOUSE'S OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET RE: IRF'S THREE HOUR RULE

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 06:56:36 GMT

Following the meeting with CMS earlier in the term, ATRA was invited to meet with the White
House’s Office of Management and Budget to discuss the inclusion of RT services in the “three-
hour rule” in Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs). The meeting included many government
officials along with top CMS representatives. ATRA was strongly supported during this meeting
by leaders from four other national professional organizations: the American Academy of
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, the American Medical Rehabilitation Providers
Association, the Brain Injury Association, and the American Spinal Injury Association. The
meeting allowed each national organization to share rationale for changing the three-hour rule
to include recreational therapy services (and other skilled services) as prescribed by physicians
to meet patient individual needs. The officials with the Office of Management and Budget asked a
few clarifying questions, and the meeting ended with a positive feeling. ATRA is thankful for this
opportunity to meet with White House officials and for the strong support from other national
rehabilitation organizations invested in this issue.

UTAH BILL PASSES TO HAVE MEDICAID REIMBURSEMENT FOR RT SERVICES

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 06:43:15 GMT

Additional Details HERE

APPLY TO BE A VOLUNTEER ATRA ADVOCACY LIAISON

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 06:46:33 GMT

APPLY HERE

ATRA SUBMITS COMMENTS FOR CMS'S UPDATE FOR SNF'S

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:54:08 GMT

Read the full comments HERE

ATRA SUBMITS COMMENTS FOR CMS'S UPDATE FOR IRF'S

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:51:30 GMT

Read the full comments HERE

ATRA IS HIRING!

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 16:20:59 GMT

The American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) is currently seeking applications and nominations for the position of Marketing Coordinator . We are looking for an enthusiastic, passionate individual to join our team and help ATRA live its mission to empower recreational therapists! The Marketing Coordinator will work closely with the ATRA staff to oversee all creative and marketing aspects of the association. Creativity, design skills, and the ability to function independently to meet predetermined deadlines are a must for this position.

Screening of applications begins June 9, 2023, and continues until the position is filled. The preferred position starting date is July 10, 2023. A complete application consists of (1) a letter addressing identified qualifications; (2) a resume; (3) a portfolio that highlights your social media presence and/or creative abilities; and (4) three professional reference letters that speak to your abilities related to marketing and/or social media skills. Other documentation may be requested. Only complete applications submitted electronically via the online application form will be considered.

Any questions should be addressed and emailed to:

Dyann Serravillo

ATRA Administrative Assistant

Email: dyann@atra-online.com

ATRA Marketing Coordinator Job Description HERE

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR ATRA ANNUAL CONFERENCE: NAVIGATING THE POSSIBILITIES

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 16:24:25 GMT

Registration is now open for #ACON23 in St. Louis, MO! Check out our ATRA Annual Conference: Navigating the Possibilities website for details about our upcoming conference, including hotel information.

ATRA SIGNS ON TO ITEM COALITION THANK YOU LETTER TO CMS

Tue, 23 May 2023 16:30:00 GMT

Read the Thank You Letter HERE!

CMS EXPANDS MEDICARE COVERAGE TO INCLUDE POWER SEAT ELEVATION FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS

Thu, 18 May 2023 16:51:13 GMT

Read the Statement HERE

ATRA SIGNS ON STATEMENT ON GLOBAL ACCESSIBILITY AWARENESS DAY

brent@atra-online.com (Brent Wolfe) — Thu, 18 May 2023 16:39:15 GMT

Read the Statement HERE

ATRA MET WITH CMS TO DISCUSS PHYSICIAN REFERRAL OF RT SERVICES FOR IRF'S

Thu, 04 May 2023 16:42:00 GMT

ATRA Meets with CMS re: end of the “3 Hour Rule” in Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities

Since January 2020, the United States has operated under a declared public health emergency (PHE) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Public Health Service Act, which provides the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) with the authority to declare PHEs, requires such declarations to be renewed every 90 days if it is determined that the emergency still exists.

Post-Acute Care Waivers During the PHE

Using the agency’s own authorities and additional flexibilities granted by Congress, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has implemented a series of blanket waivers for health care providers during the PHE. These include several important waivers impacting post-acute care (PAC) providers, the vast majority of which are scheduled to revert entirely upon lifting of the PHE, unless additional action is taken by CMS and/or Congress. Key waivers impacting the PAC field, and the status of those waivers, are summarized below.

Three Hour Rule : First, numerous important PHE waivers directly impact Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs). A full list can be found here . Of particular importance is the so-called “three hour rule” waiver which is set to expire at the end of the PHE. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act includes a requirement during the PHE that CMS waive the “three-hour rule” for IRFs. Prior to the PHE, IRFs were required to use an “intensity of therapy” standard to assess whether patients were appropriate for admission to an IRF. This equated into a requirement that beneficiaries participate in at least three hours per day (or 15 hours per week) of skilled rehabilitation therapy. This requirement has been wholly waived during the PHE so that IRFs can accept patients even if they are not expected to receive the required three hours. On August 26, 2022, Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) introduced H.R. 8746, the Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act . This legislation would maintain the three-hour rule in its pre-pandemic form upon admission of the patient, but would grant more flexibility for the treating rehabilitation physician to prescribe a broader mix of skilled therapeutic services as the patient recovers and prepares for discharge to home or another setting of care.

Stakeholders, including ATRA, have met with CMS to discuss avenues to permanently expand the three-hour rule after the PHE ends, so that IRFs do not automatically “snap back” to the most restrictive version of the rule after the PHE. If agency action is not taken, stakeholders are likely to work with Congress to reintroduce the Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act in the 118th Congress to ensure that patients in IRFs are able to access the full slate of skilled therapies deemed necessary by the rehabilitation team.

To read the full briefing on the end of the PHE from Powers Firm, click this link .

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS NOW OPEN FOR ATRA'S 2023 CONFERENCE IN ST. LOUIS!

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 16:54:21 GMT

The American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) 2023 Annual Conference Call for Presentations is now open!

Go to https://www.pathlms.com/atra/pages/atra2023 and click the box to go to the type of proposal you would like to submit:

Educational Session Proposals

Educational sessions occur in a variety of formats and can be 60 minute to 6 hour sessions.

Research Institute Proposals

Research Institute sessions are an opportunity to present recent and current research. Presenters share their research in 20-30 minute oral presentations OR through poster presentations. Research abstracts are published the following year.

ATRA’s “Navigating the Possibilities” conference will be September 9 – 12 in St. Louis, MO.

ATRA ENDORSES CCD EDUCATION TASK FORCE REQUESTS FOR FY 2024 APPROPRIATIONS

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 17:31:35 GMT

Read the support letter HERE!

ATRA ENDORSES MENTAL HEALTH LIAISON GROUP (MHLG) FY 2024 FINAL APPROPRIATIONS REQUEST

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 17:39:24 GMT

Review the Request HERE!

ATRA SIGNS ON TO CPR COMMENTS ON INTEROPERABILITY AND PRIOR AUTHORIZATION

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 17:49:49 GMT

READ THE SUPPORT LETTER HERE!

ATRA RELEASES THE ROLE OF RT IN EQUINE ASSISTED SERVICES POSITION STATEMENT

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 19:18:15 GMT

Read the Statement HERE!

NYSS CHAMPIONS NEWSLETTER - ISSUE 17

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 18:56:19 GMT

ODPHP Updates

Announcements

February 1, 2023 is National Girls & Women in Sports Day!
Join the Women’s Sports Foundation in celebrating National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD), a celebration that inspires girls and women to play and be active, and to realize their full power. NGWSD honors the achievements of women athletes, coaches, and leaders.
Visit the NGWSD website to locate an event in your community, plan or register your own event, download resources and read the stories of athletes, key supporters, and more.
Please reach out Morgan Powell at MPowell@WomensSportsFoundation.org with any questions.
Save the date for the next NYSS Champions partner webinar!
In honor of National Girls & Women in Sports Day, the next NYSS Champions partner webinar will focus on engaging girls in sports. Registration details are coming soon!
The NYSS Champions application is now online!
ODPHP launched an online NYSS Champions application to make it easier for interested organizations to apply to become NYSS Champions. You can use the sample tweet below to help us spread the word and encourage your partners to apply.
We’re proud to be recognized by @HealthGov as an NYSS Champion! Is your organization working to make #YouthSports safe, fun, and inclusive? Learn how you can join the growing network of #NYSSChampions and apply today: https://health.gov/our-work/nutrition-physical-activity/national-youth-sports-strategy/nyss-champions
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Healthy Schools has announced a new funding opportunity!
CDC Healthy Schools announced a new Notice of Funding Opportunity: DP23-0002, School-Based Interventions to Promote Equity and Improve Health, Academic Achievement, and Well-Being of Students.
Visit the CDC Healthy Schools website to learn more and contact eya6@cdc.gov with any questions.
Registration is open for the Play Like a Girl: Health and Wellness in Girls Sports webinar series!
The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health Region 6 office is hosting the Play Like a Girl webinar series [PDF] to educate coaches that work with female athletes.
Register for the first webinar in the series, You Can Save a Life: The Signs, Symptoms and What to Do About Eating Disorders on February 22, 2023 at 2pm ET.

Instant Replay

Watch the latest webinar in the Healthy People 2030 Webinar Series: Healthy People, Healthy Hearts: Healthy People 2030 and Cardiovascular Health.
View the Healthy People 2030 webinar recording to learn about the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services’ efforts to address adolescent obesity and prevent cardiovascular disease.
Watch the recording from the latest NYSS Champions partner webinar.
You can access the partner webinar recording (passcode: 0aL*y54^) to hear the presentation from Ben Sherwood, CEO of the youth sports technology platform MOJO.

Resources

Try out Healthy People 2030 data visualization tools.
With new Healthy People 2030 data tools , you can easily create charts to display Healthy People 2030 data (e.g., disparities in youth sports participation based on family income ).
Check out the Move Your Way® healthy eating resources.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human services released Move Your Way® resources that highlight simple steps people can take to get active and eat healthy.
Read a publication highlighting NYSS Champions.
A new paper, “ National Youth Sports Strategy – Implementation in Action ” was published in SHAPE America’s Journal of Physical Education, Recreation and Dance highlighting the work of several NYSS Champions!
Explore Active People, Healthy NationSM resources on equity and inclusive access to physical activity.
Equitable and Inclusive Access to Physical Activity serves as the foundation to all Active People, Healthy NationSM strategies. The updated web page provides information on prioritizing health equity, strategies for improving equitable access to safe areas for physical activity, success stories, and resources.

Partner Updates

The partner updates section is intended to help NYSS Champions share resources and opportunities with each other but is not meant to provide an HHS endorsement of a specific organization or resource.

Announcements

Up2Us Sports is accepting applications to host an Up2Us Sports coach or Up2Us Sports VISTA.
Watch Up2Us Sports’ Coach Call for Partnership webinar for more information about the Up2Us Sports Coach Program and the application process.
Applications to host an Up2Us Sports coach are due on January 31, 2023.
Register for the Up2Us Sports’ VISTA Call for Partnership webinar on January 25, 2023 at 1pm ET to learn about the 2023 Summer VISTA program and the 2023-24 full year VISTA program and application process.
Applications to host an Up2Us Sports VISTA are due on February 10, 2023.
Registration is open for the Aspen Institute’s Project Play Summit.
Register for the 2023 Project Play Summit on May 17-18, 2023 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Registration is open for the United States Center for Coaching Excellence’s (USCCE) 2023 North American Coach Development Summit.
Register for the 2023 USCCE North American Coach Development Summit on June 12-14, 2023 in Birmingham, Alabama.
Lakeshore Foundation is currently recruiting participants for two upcoming studies.
Learn more about Lakeshore Foundation’s Accessible and Inclusive Diabetes Management study .
Help share the enrollment link for Lakeshore Foundation's study to evaluate the effects of an exercise program on improving pain, fatigue, physical activity, and physical function among people with a spinal cord injury.

Resources

Aspen Institute Project Play’s “State of Play 2022 Report.”
The Aspen Institute released the State of Play 2022 Report , which includes the latest youth sports trends related to participation, physical and mental health, coaching, and costs to play.
Sport Integrity Global Alliance’s (SIGA) “Universal Standards on Youth Development and Protection.”
SIGA launched its’ Universal Standards on Youth Development and Protection [PDF] and invites all sports organizations to adopt them.
The National Recreation and Park Association's “Active Parks! Implementation Guide”
The Active Parks! Implementation guide [PDF] provides an overview on increasing physical activity using parks, trails, and greenways. It includes a step-by-step process professionals can follow to equitably increase physical activity, plus sample infrastructure improvement, community engagement, programming, and public awareness actions to get started.
The Physical Activity Alliance’s “2022 U.S. Report Card on Physical Activity for Children & Youth”
The Physical Activity Alliance released the 2022 U.S. Report Card on Physical Activity for Children & Youth [PDF] . Watch the Physical Activity Alliance webinar to learn more.

Do you have an opportunity or free resource that you want us to highlight in a future NYSS Champions newsletter? Email the following information to sports@hhs.gov with the subject “NYSS Champions Resource.”

Organization name
Resource name/title
Brief (1-2 sentence) description of your resource
URL that links to your resource

Stay Connected

Visit health.gov .
Follow ODPHP @HealthGov on Twitter.
Sign up for email updates to get the most up-to-date information from ODPHP.

NYSS Champions play an important role in our united effort to realize the vision of the National Youth Sports Strategy: that one day all youth will have the opportunity, motivation, and access to play sports.

DID YOU RECEIVE THIS EMAIL AS A FORWARDED MESSAGE? LEARN MORE ABOUT BECOMING AN NYSS CHAMPION .

REDUCED RATE FOR ATRA MEMBERS FOR DEMENTIA CARE PROFESSIONAL ONLINE TRAINING!

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 19:42:37 GMT

Step 1: Please go to www.iccdp.net and click certifications and Montessori CMDCP and begin
the application. Within the application select association and upload your ATRA membership
card/letter. This will ensure that you receive the reduced rate.

To obtain your ATRA membership card, go here , scroll down the homepage and on the lower right side under My Profile, click on Membership Info, and click on View/Print Membership card.

Step 2: Wait for approval and the course link will be sent to you. You will have 30 days to
complete the course. You may start and stop. After completing the course, your CMDCP
certification will be emailed to you. Renewal is every is every two years. You will need 4 continuing
educational hours only available from ICCDP.

TRJ/ATRA ANNUAL CALL FOR PAPERS VOLUME 30 EXTENDED

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 19:45:56 GMT

Download PDF of Call for Papers HERE

DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION RESEARCH COALITION FUNDING INCREASES

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 19:56:50 GMT

On December 22, 2022, Congress voted to pass the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, the omnibus government funding bill for the remainder of FY 2023. This bill includes relevant highlights to governing disability & rehabilitation programs that may influence recreational therapy and those who benefit from our services.

Funding increases included the following:

NIDILRR will receive an increase of $2.5 million, for a total budget of $119 million in FY 2023.

NIH will receive an increase of $2.5 billion, for a total budget of $47.5 billion in FY 2023.
Each Institute & Center will receive at least a 3.8% increase over FY 2022 funding levels.
NICHD , which houses NCMRR , will receive an increase of $66 million for a total budget of $1.75 billion in FY 2023.

The CDC will receive an increase of $760 million, for a total budget of $9.2 billion in FY 2023.
The CDC report also includes the following language on disability & health activities at CDC:
Disability and Health – The agreement includes an increase of $3,000,000 to continue to strengthen existing programs that address healthy athletes and an increase of $1,000,000 to continue existing activities that improve physical activity and fund health promotion for people with mobility disabilities. in addition, the agreement includes an increase of $2,500,000 and recommends CDC use the funds to encourage partnership between national disability organizations and institutions of higher education to conduct implementation science research on health promotion, disease prevention, and intervention strategies for people with disabilities.

AHRQ will receive a total of $228.6 million for health care costs, quality, and outcomes research.
This total includes $10 million set aside for Long COVID research; AHRQ’s program language is below:
Long COVID Research – The agreement includes $10,000,000 for health-systems research on how best to deliver patient-centered, coordinated care to those living with Long COVID, including the development and implementation of new models of care to help treat the complexity of symptoms those with Long COVID experience.
The bill also includes the following language on disability research at AHRQ:
People with Disabilities – The agreement includes $750,000 for AHRQ to work with stakeholders to develop a research agenda and report for dissemination on health promotion, disease prevention, and intervention strategies for people with disabilities.

The Paralysis Resource Center will receive a $1 million increase for a total budget of $10.7 million.
The Limb Loss Resource Center will receive a $200,000 increase for a total budget of $4.2 million.
ACL’s Traumatic Brain Injury programs will receive a $1.3 million increase for a total budget of $13.118 million.

ATRA IS HIRING

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 19:58:59 GMT

ATRA is hiring!

The American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) is currently seeking applications and nominations for the position of Online Learning Specialist . This is a newly created position to address the increased demand for ATRA’s online learning opportunities. We are looking for an enthusiastic, passionate individual to join our team and help ATRA live its mission to empower recreational therapists! The Online Learning Specialist will specifically work closely with ATRA’s Online Learning Coordinator to create the highest quality online learning opportunities in the field. Creativity, design skills, and the ability to problem solve are a must in this position. Please review the position description for more details!

All inquires and applications can be sent to Dyann Serravillo at dyann@atra-online.com .

ACCESS ATRA WINTER 2022 NEWSLETTER NOW AVAILABLE!

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 20:06:10 GMT

Read the Winter 2022 edition of Access ATRA HERE ! You can earn CEU's by reading the edition and purchasing the Quiz.

ATRA JOINS 'CONCUSSION AWARENESS NOW" TO CHANGE HOW SOCIETY VIEWS CONCUSSIONS

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 20:19:09 GMT

When it comes to something as serious as concussion — an injury that is estimated to occur every 15 seconds in the United States — the faster you receive a diagnosis, the faster you can get back to the things you love. And yet, over half of people who suspect they have a concussion never get it checked.

Concussions don’t discriminate and can happen to anyone, anytime. So, what can you do if you think you have a concussion? It comes down to detection — the best way to ensure that the brain injury is properly treated and recovered, or the best way to get a good night’s rest knowing that a concussion didn’t result from the hit to the head you sustained that day.

ATRA is proud to join forces with Concussion Awareness Now, a coalition of organizations dedicated to changing how society views concussion. It’s not tough to tough it. And if you hit your head, you should get it checked.

The Concussion Awareness Now coalition includes nearly 20 partners, including organizations that determine guidelines for concussion care, advocate for patients and work with communities who are vulnerable to concussions. Together, we have decades of experience in the brain injury community and the resources to create a rallying cry for awareness and, ultimately, action. Our goal is to help reshape how society views concussion so that people get the care they need, when they need it most.

Learn more about Concussion Awareness Now at www.ConcussionAwarenessNow.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram .

ATRA SIGNS ON TO ITEM COALITION FINAL LETTER ON THE MEDICARE ORTHOTIC & PROSTHETIC CARE ACT

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 20:38:59 GMT

Read Letter HERE!

ATRA SIGNS ONTO DRCC PRELIMINARY COMMENTS ON NIDILRR LONG RANGE PLAN

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 20:45:11 GMT

Read the Comments HERE

ATRA SIGNS ON TO COMMENTS FOR MEDICAID ELIGIBILITY AND ENROLLMENT STREAMLINING PROPOSED RULE

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 21:06:02 GMT

Read the full comments HERE

TRJ-ATRA ANNUAL CALL FOR PAPERS

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 20:51:55 GMT

TRJ- ATRA Annual Call for Papers

Annual in Therapeutic Recreation –Volume 29

Deadline for Volume 29: January 14

Call for Papers HERE

UPCOMING NYSS CHAMPIONS PARTNER WEBINAR AND REQUEST FOR FEEDBACK ON NYSS CHAMPIONS PARTNERSHIP

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 20:10:01 GMT

The NYSS Champions Team in the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has the following upcoming events:

Registration is open for the next NYSS Champions partner webinar! We hope you’ll join us on Thursday, November 17 from 2:00-3:00pm ET for our next NYSS Champions partner webinar. NYSS Champions partner webinars include presentations, small breakout group discussions, and opportunities to share partner updates. For the November webinar, we are pleased to be joined by Ben Sherwood, CEO of the youth sports technology platform MOJO, to discuss how the power of fun, coupled with technology, can grow youth sports programming and keep kids and families returning season after season. We hope you will join us for this informal opportunity to learn, gather and share ideas, and get to know others in the partnership network. Click here to register .
Share your feedback on the NYSS Champions partnership analysis resource! We’re seeking feedback on a resource we’ve been developing to help you in your efforts to connect and collaborate with other NYSS Champions. This document contains a draft resource, additional information, and instructions on how to provide feedback. Review of the attached draft should take no more than 10 minutes. Any feedback should be emailed to emma.alitz@hhs.gov by Tuesday, November 8, 2022 .

ATRA SIGNS ONTO ITEM AND HAB COMMENTS ON HHS' PROPOSED 1557 RULE

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 20:18:08 GMT

Read the comments in the support letters HERE and HERE

REGISTER FOR FREE FOR THE REEVE SUMMIT

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 21:29:47 GMT

More information about this In Person Summit HERE

Register HERE

ATRA EMPOWERS RT'S IN SELECTED STATES THAT CMS IS OFFERING UP TO $5M GRANTS TO EXPAND ACCESS TO HCBS

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 21:36:08 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that they are providing up to $5 million grants to new states and territories, including Illinois, Kansas, and New Hampshire, to expand access to Home and Community Based Services (HCBS).

These awards will support the early planning phase for their MFP programs, including:

Establishing partnerships with community stakeholders, including those representing diverse and underserved populations, Tribal entities and governments, key state and local agencies (such as state and local public housing authorities), and community-based organizations; and
Recruiting HCBS providers as well as expert providers for transition coordination and technical assistance.

ATRA has reached out to Recreational Therapists in these three states with a template letter for them to reach out to their Medicaid Administrator to seek additional information regarding this potential funding. If you would like additional information, please review this letter that ATRA sent last November explaining RT and how it connects with HCBS.

ATRA SIGNS ON TO CPR COMMENTS ON 2023 PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE PROPOSED RULE

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 12:24:02 GMT

You can read the final letter here

ATRA OBTAINS O*NET ALLY STATUS!

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 12:25:57 GMT

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) appreciates The American Therapeutic Recreation Association’s participation in the O*NET Data Collection Program and welcomes us as an O*NET Ally!

The organization will soon be featured prominently in the Sources of Additional Information on O*NET Online and will also have the O*NET Ally tag listed next to your organization’s name. We will also be added to the O*NET Ally listing, which will be published in the near future in a special section of the O*NET Resource Center. We will be notified when these new Ally features are live!

Please visit the O*Net Welcome Page for all the information about this program.

ATRA SUBMITS COMMENTS FOR CMS'S UPDATE FOR SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES (SNFS)

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:41:00 GMT

ATRA submitted comments on the Medicare Program; Prospective Payment System and Consolidated Billing for Skilled Nursing Facilities; Updates to the Quality Reporting Program and Value-Based Purchasing Program for Federal Fiscal Year 2023

See the Full Comments here!

UPCOMING VIRTUAL WORKSHOP ON CEREBRAL PALSY

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:30:23 GMT

Register here

ATRA SIGNS ON TO CCD WRITTEN TESTIMONY 7/28/22

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 12:45:44 GMT

READ THE TESTIMONY HERE!

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR RECREATIONAL THERAPISTS

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 12:49:13 GMT

FY 2023 Forecast Announcement 15 NEW forecasts

The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) is posting its FY 2023 grants forecast in the Grants.gov database .

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Community Living and Participation Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342538

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Employment Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342545

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program, Phase I Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342539

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program: Burn Model Systems National Data and Statistical Center Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342540

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Field Initiated Projects Program: Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) - Development Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342546

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program: Traumatic Brain Injury Model System (TBIMS) Centers Collaborative Research Project Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342571

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Community Living and Participation Among People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342553

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Community Living and Participation Among People with Serious Mental Illness Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342554

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Disability in Rural Communities Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342555

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Employment Among People with Physical Disabilities Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342556

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Disability Statistics and Demographics Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342572

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program: Center on Knowledge Translation for Technology Transfer Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342541

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Field Initiated Projects Program (Research) Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342542

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Field Initiated Projects Program (Development) Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342547

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Health and Function Forecast 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=342543

Visit https://www.grants.gov and use the search terms NIDILRR or 93.433 for current and archived grant information.

Final CCD Technology/Rights Task Force Letter on Section 508 Recommendations

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 17:36:00 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA SIGNS ON TO FINAL LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR THE BIPARTISAN SENATE SAFER COMMUNITIES ACT

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 12:52:43 GMT

Full letter of support HERE

CPR Final Letter on The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 17:41:03 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

SEEKING GRANT REVIEWERS WITH DISABILITIES

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 12:59:27 GMT

ACL’s Administration on Disabilities is seeking paid peer reviewers for a variety of grant competitions, in particular, reviewers with disabilities. ACL believes in the importance of meaningfully including people with disabilities at all stages of our work, including grant review.

Reviewers are responsible for:

Attending a virtual reviewer training;
Independently reviewing and scoring assigned grant applications in an online system;
Participating in one or more conference calls with other reviewers to discuss their independent application reviews; and
Submitting final scores and comments by the deadline.

Reviewers will receive a stipend for completing the tasks above. Reasonable accommodations are available, if needed, to complete the review process.

More information is available here!

ATRA SUBMITS COMMENTS FOR CMS'S UPDATE FOR INPATIENT REHAB FACILITY (IRF)

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 13:06:42 GMT

READ THE FULL MEMO HERE!

CMS STARTS THE PROCESS OF “UNWINDING” PANDEMIC MEDICAID AND CHIP ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 13:09:37 GMT

READ THE FULL MEMO HERE!

Final CCD AT Act Letter to the House

Mon, 23 May 2022 17:45:40 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Final CCD AT Act Letter to Senate

Mon, 23 May 2022 17:44:01 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

MENTAL HEALTH WEBINAR WITH THE US DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Thu, 19 May 2022 13:13:52 GMT

Education Department to Host Summit to Spotlight Strategies to Support Students with Disabilities, Students with Mental Health Needs

This week, the U.S. Department of Education announced plans for a first-of-its-kind virtual summit, Recovery to Thriving: Supporting Mental Health & Students with Disabilities, to highlight steps schools, colleges and communities can take to support students with disabilities and students with mental health needs.

“As communities and our country heal and recover, it’s important to acknowledge that our students with disabilities have faced unique challenges amid the pandemic and that some long-standing inequities between students with disabilities and their peers were made worse during this time, said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “Ensuring that our students with disabilities receive a free, appropriate public education that meets their academic, social, and emotional needs isn’t just written into law, it’s a moral obligation. We must work together so that students with disabilities and mental health needs receive the resources they need to thrive. This summit will highlight promising practices in this important work, demonstrate the Department’s continued commitment to serving our students with special needs, and provide schools with the tools to reimagine education and ensure all students succeed.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and, as part of the President’s Unity Agenda, President Biden announced a strategy to address our nation’s mental health crisis.

The half-day, virtual summit will occur on Monday, May 23, at 12:30 p.m. ET and will bring together education leaders, disability advocates and coordinators, special education professionals, and others to discuss issues affecting students with disabilities and students with mental health needs as our nation continues to emerge from the pandemic.

The Department will hold a series of panels to discuss five key issues areas: use of American Rescue Plan funding to address lost instructional time and providing mental health services in K-12 schools; the use of Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund funding to increase access to mental health services for students in higher education; supporting equitable pathways for people with disabilities as they transition from school through career; and considerations for digital accessibility in the emerging virtual and hybrid work and school environments.

This summit will also highlight some of the Department’s latest announcements and resources, including plans to strengthen and protect the rights for students with disabilities by amending regulations implementing Section 504 and a resource for schools, colleges and communities to promote mental health and the social and emotional well-being of children and students.

The summit’s sessions include:

Opening remarks from U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona
Remarks from U.S. Rep. Robert C. "Bobby" Scott, chair of the House Education and Labor Committee, and U.S. Sen. Bob Casey.
Panel discussions on key topics, including:
Supporting People with Disabilities as they Transition from School through Career
Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Students Pursuing Higher Education
Inclusion and Access for Students with Disabilities in the context of IDEA Implementation
Supporting the Whole Child as Schools Recover from COVID-19 and Serve Students with Disabilities
Ensuring Access in Virtual and Hybrid Environments
A first-person, TED-style talk with a veteran with a disability currently pursuing higher education
Remarks from U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal and closing remarks from U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Cindy Marten

To register for the summit, please visit here .

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/recovery-to-thriving-supporting-mental-health-students-with-disabilities-registration-337443872707?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=

ATRA CONFERENCE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

Mon, 16 May 2022 13:16:22 GMT

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT our ACON 2022 Page HERE

TO REGISTER FOR THE CONFERENCE CLICK HERE

ITEM COALITION STEERING COMMITTEE LETTER ON AIR TRAVEL FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS

Fri, 06 May 2022 13:20:35 GMT

READ THE STATEMENT HERE

GRANT OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY LONG COVID

Wed, 04 May 2022 13:38:59 GMT

DRRC:

In recent weeks, NIH has released additional information about its RECOVER Initiative, the cross-agency effort to study Long COVID or Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) using the $1.15 billion appropriated by Congress for this work.

First, NIH has significantly expanded the information available on the RECOVER website recovercovid.org .

This includes:

* New information on the leadership of RECOVER, including the Executive Committee made up of NIH leaders, the Steering Committee of external researchers across the country and patient representatives, and the National Community Engagement Group (NCEG), made up of nominees representing patients, caregivers, and community members. The NCEG has thus far only included individuals nominated by RECOVER researchers at local study sites; however, the website notes that additional slots for nominations will be opened in the future. Information on the RECOVER leadership can be found here .

* The full RECOVER research protocol (study plan) for the adult cohort has also been released, available here .

* NIH has also hosted several recent seminars on Long COVID through their RECOVER Research Review (R3) series. The "Clinical Spectrum of PASC: Overview" seminar held on March 22 is now available as a full recording and transcript on the RECOVER website here (scroll down to Videos and Presentations). Other recent seminars on "Commonalities with Other Disorders and Post-Viral Syndromes: Focus on ME/CFS" (April 12) and "Clinical Spectrum of PASC: Focus on Pediatrics, Including MIS-C" (April 26) should be published in the near future.

* NIH has several additional webinars planned, and we encourage any interested DRRC members to attend. Registration information is not yet posted on the RECOVER website, but the planned topics and dates are as follows:

* May 10, 2022: Clinical Spectrum of PASC: Focus on Dysautonomia
* May 24, 2022: Leveraging EHR/Real World Data to Understand PASC
* June 14, 2022: Clinical Spectrum of PASC: Focus on Neuro-cognitive Function

If you would like to sign up directly for the RECOVER mailing list for future updates, you can do so here (scroll down to "Stay Tuned and Sign Up for Email Updates").

Please also see this attachment for a new Research Opportunity Announcement (ROA) from RECOVER on Clinical Trials for Prevention and/or Treatment of Long COVID. The full ROA can also be found here . We encourage all DRRC members to distribute this for your networks and encourage submissions by disability-focused researchers. NIH is planning to host a technical assistance webinar for those seeking to submit applications on Friday, May 6.

Thank you,

Joe Nahra
Director of Government Relations

Powers
Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville PC
1501 M Street NW, Seventh Floor | Washington, DC 20005-1700

HELP PROMOTE NATIONAL PHYSICAL FITNESS AND SPORTS MONTH! REGISTER FOR THE UPCOMING WEBINAR!

Wed, 04 May 2022 13:23:46 GMT

Good afternoon, NYSS Champions!

Happy National Physical Fitness and Sports Month! You can find sample social media messages to help promote the observance in our latest blog. We look forward to seeing how you #MoveInMay! We also have a customizable social media graphic just for NYSS Champions!

Click here to customize your NYSS Champions National Physical Fitness and Sports Month graphic.

Registration is open for the next NYSS Champions partner webinar! We hope you’ll join us on Tuesday, May 24 from 3:00-4:00pm ET for our next NYSS Champions partner webinar! NYSS Champions partner webinars include presentations, small breakout group discussions, and opportunities to share partner updates. For the May webinar, we are pleased to be joined by Debbie Hoyer, Public Health Advisor at the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, to discuss how organizations can leverage Healthy People 2030 to support their work in youth sports and physical activity. We hope you will join us for this informal opportunity to learn, gather and share ideas, and get to know others in the partnership network.

Click here to register for our next NYSS Champions partner webinar.

New youth sports resources are coming soon! We will be releasing new youth sports resources later this month and are excited to share them with you. We will also be sharing a toolkit with sample promotional content that you can use to help spread the word during the final week of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Stay tuned!

Sincerely,

NYSS Champions Team

Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

ATRA JOINS MENTAL HEALTH LIAISON GROUP (MHLS)

Mon, 02 May 2022 17:39:12 GMT

This past month ATRA joined the Mental Health Liaison Group, a membership of mental health and addiction advocates advancing policy and leading change. This 70+ member group is dedicated to elevating the national conversation around mental health and addiction. MHLG works to advance federal policies that support prevention, early intervention, treatment, and recovery services and support. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) sponsored ATRA’s application to MHLS.

ATRA is excited to continue to be at the table within this organization for important conversations and advocacy efforts for mental health services. Learn more about MHLG here !

See ATRA’s website here for the full list of membership coalitions that ensure advocacy efforts on behalf of recreational therapists!

NIDILRR'S GRANTS OPPORTUNITIES

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 17:47:51 GMT

The National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) has published its funding opportunities for this fiscal year.

All open opportunities can be found here .

WHITE HOUSE ANNOUNCES INTERAGENCY PLAN ON LONG COVID

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 17:41:41 GMT

White House Memorandum on addressing the

long term effects of COVID19

DRRC Letter to NIMHD-AHRQ on Health Disparities Designation

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 17:47:08 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

CCD Letter to CMS Administratot re: Access to Dental Surgical Services

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 17:52:18 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

President Biden HCBS Thank You Letter and Push for 150 Billion

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:54:13 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA ADVOCATES FOR YOU!

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 18:10:46 GMT

On March 1, 2022, ATRA submitted a statement to the hearing titled “Protecting Youth Mental Health: Part 11- Identifying and Addressing Barriers to Care” for the United States Senate Finance Committee. This written statement strongly advocated for access to RT services for mental health treatment for youth and adolescents.

Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) chairs this congressional committee. ATRA’s government affairs team recently spoke with Senator Wyden and his staff to advocate for RT services to address America’s mental health crisis. Senator Wyden asked for more information about RT and evidence of treatment effectiveness in various mental health settings. Our statement submitted on March 1 did this and more! We plan to use this statement to continue advocacy efforts with Senator Wyden and the Senate Finance Committee to ensure greater access to RT services for youth and adolescents with mental health needs.

The full statement of written record is found here .

CALLING RT'S WORKING WITH VETERANS

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 17:51:54 GMT

Recreational therapist work in outdoor recreation settings as part of the important continuum of care to sustain veteran’s health and wellbeing.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is requesting information from RTs and RT organizations to assist in implementing the statutory requirements of the Veterans Comprehensive Prevention, Access to Care, and Treatment (COMPACT) Act of 2020. The COMPACT Act mandates VA to establish an interagency task force to be known as the Task Force on Outdoor Recreation for Veterans (Task Force). The Task Force will carry out its duties in consultation with appropriate veterans outdoor recreation groups, and through this request for information,

VA seeks comments on various topics from these groups to help inform the work and ultimately the recommendations of the Task Force. This effort aligns with the Administration's America the Beautiful initiative, which seeks to improve opportunities for outdoor recreation and address inequitable access to nature and its benefits. Feedback from the public will also help inform the work ahead.

One of the requirements is to obtain consultation from Veteran outdoor recreation groups. To meet this requirement, VA published a Request for Information (comment section) in the Federal Register today. Click the link to comment:

Federal Register :: Notice of Request for Information Regarding Veterans Outdoor Recreation

Use the prompt questions under the Request for Information heading to write your comments.

The comment period will be open until March 25, 2022.

CALL FOR CARTE BOARD NOMINATIONS

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 19:15:06 GMT

The Committee on Accreditation of Recreational Therapy Education (CARTE) is now seeking nominations to fill expiring board member terms. CARTE is seeking the following board positions: 2 Educators (3-yr term), 2 Practitioners (3-yr term), 1 Student (1-yr term), and 1 Public (3-yr term). The Board meets VIRTUALLY 1x/mo. This a great opportunity to learn about accreditation and ensuring quality education of future RTs. Nominations are due April 8th, 2022. Please see/share attached document for details or contact email Dr. David Loy at loyd@ecu.edu .

Nomination Form

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE PARALYZED VETERAN'S OF AMERICA (PVA) SUMMIT

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 19:20:15 GMT

Scholarship applications are now being accepted.

Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) is proud to offer scholarships for Healthcare Summit + Expo held during August 28 – 31, 2022 at Omni Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX. The scholarship package will include up to 3 nights stay at the Omni Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX during the selected conference dates. There will be 250 scholarships awarded to qualifying clinicians, on a first come, first serve basis. For those who have already registered, your name has been added to the first group for consideration for scholarships.

Definition: The 2022 scholarship will represent a designated credit for up to three (3) nights' for guestroom and tax only at the Omni Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX , not to exceed the conference hotel guestroom rate of $165 per night plus tax. The Omni Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX guestroom reservations must comply with the contracted "meeting guestroom block."

Designated three (3) nights credit: The 2022 scholarship will cover guestroom and tax charges for August 28 - 31, 2022 at the Omni Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX only. You are responsible for the first night's stay. If you are only staying August 29 - 31, you will still be responsible for the first night's stay.

Hotel Reservations: PVA is under contractual obligation to the Omni Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX for guestroom nights. To receive the scholarship, your reservation MUST qualify for PVA's Guestroom Block. Hotel reservations made using a coupon, travel credit program, Expedia, Travelocity or any other method, including government rate reservation will not be included in PVA's guestroom block by the hotel.

Hotel Reservation Procedure: If you are awarded PVA's Summit 2022 scholarship, upon receiving notification you must reserve your room online or by phone for your full length of stay. PVA will notify the hotel of the nights to be credited after your reservation has been made. Visit the Hotel and Travel page for more information.

Hotel Cancellation Policy: If you elect to cancel after accepting the scholarship or 'no show', you will be responsible for one night's hotel cost.

Application: The 2022 scholarship application is part of the conference online registration system. Once registration is completed, you will receive a confirmation letter. Your scholarship request approval notification will be sent via a separate email.

Guestroom Sharing: The 2022 scholarship applies only to the guestroom nights. For eligible attendees sharing a room, since the scholarship applies to guestroom nights, only the designated credit of up to 3 nights will be credited to the guestroom.

Reservation Name: The hotel reservation must be made in the same name used for your conference registration. Any other name, i.e. married name or hyphenated name, not currently in the database creates difficulties matching the conference registration list with the hotel guestroom list. The scholarship will not be applied to the guestroom, if the name does not match the conference registration list.

Go to https://summitpva.org/scholarships for details.

If you have any questions, please send an email to summit@pva.org .

ATRA ANNUAL CALL FOR PAPERS EXTENDED!

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 19:22:27 GMT

DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MARCH 14!

The American Therapeutic Recreation Association is pleased to invite the submission of manuscripts for Volume 29 of the Annual in Therapeutic Recreation, the official research journal of the association. The purpose of the Annual is to further advance the body of knowledge of the therapeutic recreation profession by creating new knowledge and understandings in practice and in education. The Annual publishes a wide range of original, peer-reviewed articles such as:

Evidence-based practice/Empirical studies
Systematic reviews
Application of theories or models to practice and education
Program or service evaluations/Case studies
Methodological reviews
Current issues and trends in service delivery or education
Innovations in service delivery or education
Practice protocols

NEW FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES: ATRA IS ADVOCATING FOR YOU!

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 19:24:04 GMT

Funding Opportunities through the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR)

NIDILRR has published its funding opportunities for this fiscal year to Grants.gov . All open opportunities are listed below.

NEW Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program: Center on Knowledge Translation for Disability and Rehabilitation Research Synopsis 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=334822

Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program: Community Living and Participation (Research) Synopsis 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=334819

Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program: Community Living and Participation (Development) Synopsis 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=334818

Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers (RERC) Program: RERC on Rehabilitation Strategies, Techniques, and Interventions Synopsis 1
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=334811

Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) National Network Collaborative Research Project Synopsis 2
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=334826

Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Community Living
Switzer Research Fellowships Program Synopsis 3
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=334803

2021 ANNUAL REPORT TO CONGRESS ON THE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 19:25:51 GMT

2021 Annual Report to Congress on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

OSERS released the 43rd Annual Report to Congress on the Implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 2021 . The report focuses on children with disabilities being served under IDEA, Part B and Part C, nationally and at the state level. Note: The number of full-time equivalent (FTE) personnel and number and percentage of FTE fully certified personnel employed to provide related services for children and students ages 3 through 21 served under IDEA, Part B, by personnel type is featured on page 77. Recreation and therapeutic recreation specialists are listed in this FTE chart along with physical education teachers; the combination of RTs with PE teachers makes our FTE number report inaccurate. However, this chart is important and relevant to RTs because therapeutic recreation specialists continue to be included as fully certified personnel employed to provide related services. Recreation, including therapeutic recreation, also continues to be listed as a related service in the "Note" at the bottom of page 77.

Organizational Sign On Letter to Congress SMART

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 18:55:55 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

HAPPY RT MONTH!

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 19:29:32 GMT

IT'S FINALLY HERE! IT'S RECREATIONAL THERAPY MONTH!

February is a very special month to celebrate all you do as a recreational therapist. This month we want to Reignite, Recreate, and Reconnect.

We have some special announcements, opportunities to learn, and more prizes than ever before!

Click here to download our official RT Month posters and flyers to hang at your workplace. And today is the last chance to order the RT Month merchandise to get it by the end of the month!

Here is a preview of the month ahead.

RT MONTH RESOURCES!

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 19:31:50 GMT

CREATIVE RT MONTH ACTIVITIES

Looking for some creative activities to help you spice up your Recreational Therapy month? Then look no further! Check out these innovative games to engage your clients virtually or in-person.

Looking for a brochure to use at your facility, download our RT Month Brochure developed by our RT Month Committee!

RT MONTH POSTERS!!!

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 19:36:20 GMT

IT'S ALMOST RECREATIONAL THERAPY MONTH!

ATRA IS PLEASED TO PROVIDE THE ATTACHED DOWNLOADS FOR YOU TO HELP PROMOTE RECREATIONAL THERAPY AT YOUR FACILITY!

US SURGEON GENERAL ADVISORY ON YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 19:44:12 GMT

U.S. Surgeon General Issues Advisory on Youth Mental Health Crisis Further Exposed by COVID-19 Pandemic

Today, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued a new Surgeon General’s Advisory to highlight the urgent need to address the nation’s youth mental health crisis. As the nation continues the work to protect the health and safety of America’s youth during this pandemic with the pediatric vaccine push amid concerns of the emerging omicron variant, the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Protecting Youth Mental Health outlines the pandemic’s unprecedented impacts on the mental health of America’s youth and families, as well as the mental health challenges that existed long before the pandemic.

Click HERE to continue reading this important announcement from the US Surgeon General.

MEETING WITH CHAIR OF THE SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE SENATOR WYDEN

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 19:48:51 GMT

Youth & Mental Health Crisis Following COVID-19

FAIR Health released a study in March 2021 on the impact of COVID-19 on pediatric mental health that was very concerning. In response to that, the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations of the Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. YouTube Link to hearing: https://youtu.be/sqay0ul2TI4 .

ATRA’s Response: Letter of Support

In order to better advocate for RTs serving youth with mental health diagnoses, ATRA wrote a letter of support that can be found below. This letter was sent to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, House Committee on Education and Labor, House Committee on Ways and Means, Senate Committee on Finance, and the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

ATRA’s Meeting with Senator Ron Wyden, Chairmen of the Senate Committee on Finance

In response to this letter, ATRA was invited to speak with staff members of Senator Ron Wyden, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance! During this conference call on December 1st, ATRA representatives discussed the role of RT in providing quality services for adolescent mental health. We are highlighted examples of how RT services reach clients’ mental health goals by using preferred leisure activities. We also addressed the limitations to accessing RT services because of funding gaps, making it challenging for these RT services to be available in every community.

At the end of the conference call, we provided 3 “asks” of Chairman Wyden:

To support inclusion of the full $150 billion for home and community-based services (HCBS) by the Senate in the Build Back Better Act. This funding can be used to help support recreational therapy in the community.
In regards to HCBS, we would also like to further engage your office in a letter to CMS that asks that CMS guidance to states on the development of their local HCBS plans include language that encourages recreational therapists be included as key members of the therapy teams.
Continued conversation in the new year about Senate introduction of The Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act, which would return the CMS interpretation of the three-hour rule to language that was included in the Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility regulation prior to 2010, and would allow for physician judgment on the right therapy mix when determining what can be counted toward the three-hour rule.

The conference call ended positively with the Chairman’s staff interested in continuing this conversation and working with ATRA in the near future.

ATRA LUNCH BUNCH

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 19:51:21 GMT

Make sure to come and join us this Wednesday, December 1 from 1:00-2:00 eastern for our next ATRA Lunch Bunch. This is an excellent time to connect with other recreational therapists, engage in dialog, and network!

Bring your lunch and let's meet on Zoom !

NEW FUNDING POTENTIAL IN RT!

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 20:18:52 GMT

On November 10, 2021, Biden-Harris Administration announced that the Administration on Community Living (ACL) will receive a $150 million investment to expand the public health workforce in order to support the health and safety of people with disabilities and older adults who were disproportionately affected during the COVID-19 pandemic. This announcement came in response to the final report from the COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force.

This is great news for recreational therapists as the purpose of the funding is to directly support wages and benefits of those who work to assist people with Disabilities and Older Adults.

Networks and organizations that are eligible to receive this funding include:

Independent Living Centers
Independent Living Designated State Entities
No Wrong Door Systems/Aging and Disability Resource Centers
Paralysis and Limb Loss Resource Centers
Protection & Advocacy Systems
State Assistive Technology Programs
State Councils on Developmental Disabilities
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs
State Units on Aging/Area Agencies on Aging
Traumatic Brain Injury State Partnership Programs
Tribes and tribal organizations, and
University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

Here is the link to the ACL website to follow updates on funding opportunities if you work (or desire to work) in one of the above settings.

The full briefing about this new funding can be found on the White House’s website as the third bullet point.

KENTUCKY RT CONFERENCE

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 19:21:02 GMT

The Kentucky Area Therapeutic Recreation Association (KATRA) in partnership with the Kentucky Recreation and Park Society (KRPS) will be offering a 1-day series of TR sessions at their annual conference Thursday, November 4, 2021.

The TR conference sessions will be available on a virtual platform using Zoom.

Anyone interested can go to https://www.kyrps.org/conference-expo to register and view the conference program.

HELPFUL ARTICLE

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:25:42 GMT

Interested in seeing what the US News & World Report had to say about Recreational Therapy? Check out their article on 6 Things to Know about Recreational Therapy !

ITEM Comments on MCIT Proposed Repeal 10.15.21

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 18:12:31 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

CCD Health Task Force Comments on IRF RCD Round II

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 18:11:05 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation Comments on Proposed IRF RCD

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 18:02:41 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Thank You Letter to Reps Rush and Smith SMART ACT

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 18:00:14 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA IS HIRING!!

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 19:29:14 GMT

ATRA is pleased to announce that we are looking to hire an Administrative Assistant . This is a virtual, part-time position and would be fantastic for anyone looking to expand their skill set, increase their income, use their expertise and organizational skills, and be actively involved in a growing and vibrant organization. ATRA is looking to continue its upward trajectory and has exciting plans for this upcoming year!

Screening of applications begins October 1, 2021, and continues until the position is filled. The preferred position starting date is November 1, 2021. A complete application consists of a letter addressing the qualifications included in the position announcement; a resume; and the names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of at least three professional references. Other documentation may be requested. Only complete applications submitted electronically will be considered.

The full job announcement can be found here .

Applications and nominations should be addressed and emailed to:

Dr. Brent Wolfe, LRT/CTRS, FDRT

ATRA Executive Director

Email: info@atra-online.com

ACON 2021 PLATFORM

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 19:30:47 GMT

Come check out the conference website where you can access all of our amazing content!

https://www.pathlms.com/atra/courses/33854

CCD Letter re: ICF Proposal

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:15:59 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ITEM Coalition Letter on Low Vision Coverage in FY22 Reconciliation Package

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 18:14:11 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

PUBLIC POLICY WIN!

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 19:32:24 GMT

WIN FOR MEDICARE COMPLEX REHABILITATION TECHNOLOGY USERS

Recently the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) changed their policy to permanently exclude Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) manual wheelchair accessories from the competitive bidding system thought to cause barriers in access, especially those in rural communities. This is a big win for people living with physical disabilities who use manual wheelchairs and assistive technology to remain independent, healthy, and active. ATRA is an active member of the Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid Coalition (ITEM) that advocated for this change for several years, so we celebrate this victory!

CMS had already exempted all CRT power wheelchair accessories from the same cuts. The new permanent policy for manual wheelchair accessories was issued as part of the Fiscal Year 2022 Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System final rule.

CCD Health TF Comments on updating Marketplace Payment Parameters Rule

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 18:21:03 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Comments

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 18:19:07 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

WHITE HOUSE SUPPORTING THE ADA

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 19:34:53 GMT

Biden-Harris Administration Marks Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act and Announces Resources to Support Individuals with Long COVID

Make sure to read the full press release !

CCD SSI Letter 7.26.21

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 18:27:31 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

CPR Response to CMS- RTI re: Unified PAC PPS Prototype

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 18:29:30 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Comments on CMS IFR re: vaccination status in Congregate Facilities

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 18:33:51 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA CONFERENCE REGISTRATION IS LIVE!

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 19:40:18 GMT

ATRA is thrilled to announce the opening of registration for our annual conference! You can register right now on our conference website.

This year's conference will take place in Cleveland, Ohio from September 11-13. We are excited to get back to in-person conferences and we hope you can't wait to reconnect with your ATRA family! While we are excited that we can be in person, we will be following all recommendations from the CDC to ensure the safety of all our attendees. Please visit the safety section of our conference website for more information about our specific safety precautions.

In addition to the face-to-face opportunity, we are also offering an online version of the conference as well! Those who attend the online conference will have 30 days to view all of the CEU sessions and the online conference will include live-streamed events from Cleveland! ATRA is committed to empowering you and we are happy to be able to offer multiple avenues for conference participation this year.

Those who register for the face-to-face conference will automatically have access to all of the online conference content.

For more information about the conference, please visit the conference website or email us at info@atra-online.com .

Looking forward to seeing everyone in Cleveland!

ATRA LOBBIES CONGRESS FOR MEDICAID HOME AND COMMUNITY BASED SERVICES

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 19:37:03 GMT

ATRA is pleased to announce that through our partnership with the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities we are lobbying Congress to include the $400 billion investment in Medicaid Health and Community Based infrastructure and other critical investments to make health care more accessible and affordable for people with disabilities in the next recovery package.

Make sure to read the full text of the letter!

Letter to Congress on Health Priorities for Recovery

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 18:35:16 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA COMMENTS ON PROPOSED RULES

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 19:44:27 GMT

In a continued effort to empower recreational therapists, ATRA has recently offered comments on three sets of proposed rules. Please see the comments ATRA provided for PPS for Skilled Nursing Facilities , PPS for Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities , and the PPS for Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities .

We recognize that these three employment settings involve a vast number of recreational therapists and we are here to advocate for you!

Final SNF Proposed Rule Comments

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 18:36:40 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA PROVIDES EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 19:48:26 GMT

Curious about the future of the job market in recreational therapy? Take a look at Zippia.com for the latest information on future trends in the profession!

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)

brent@atra-online.com (Brent Wolfe) — Thu, 27 May 2021 18:38:15 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

NEW CMS DIRECTOR CONFIRMED

Wed, 26 May 2021 19:51:47 GMT

The U.S. Senate on Tuesday confirmed Chiquita Brooks-LaSure as next administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The agency had been without an official leader since former CMS head Seema Verma stepped down in January.

Click here for the rest of the story.

BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION EFFORTS TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Fri, 21 May 2021 19:53:48 GMT

In the first 100 days, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken significant steps to achieve a more inclusive country for people with disabilities. Through quick policy action, this Administration has ensured disabled Americans are receiving resources and were included in key administrative proposals. Follow this link for the full list.

NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY HOLDIN BRIEFING ON ENFORCEABLE ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT STANDARDS

Mon, 17 May 2021 20:05:20 GMT

The National Council on Disability--an independent federal agency--offers a webinar discussing the release of their new report on accessible medical and dental equipment titled Enforceable Accessible Medical Equipment Standards: A Necessary Means to Address the Health Care Needs of People with Mobility Disabilities.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ncd-report-release-enforceable-accessible-medical-equipment-standards-tickets-154595542429

NIH: APPLICATIONS NEED FOR COVID-19, DISABILITY, AND REHABILITATION RESEARCH

Mon, 17 May 2021 20:01:42 GMT

To all researchers in the disability and rehabilitation field: The National Institutes of Health (NIH), especially the National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research (NCMRR), is seeking applications for research into the nexus of COVID-19, disability, and rehabilitation. NCMRR has released several Notices of Special Interest (NOSIs) in the past weeks and months, and yet has not received a high volume of applications from the field. NIH is looking to fund these critical areas of research, but they need your help!

ATRA strongly encourages all researchers to consider developing and submitting applications to NIH in the following areas:

Further details can be found via NIH here: Research on Rehabilitation Needs Associated with the COVID-19 Pandemic (NOT-HD-20-031); Notice of Intent to Publish ROAs for the NIH PASC Initiative . ATRA has worked closely with the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) to ensure that NIH places appropriate emphasis on research needs regarding disability, rehabilitation, and COVID – now the field must respond in turn.

COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE FOR THE SPINAL CORD INJURY/DISEASES AND NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS COMMUNITY

Mon, 17 May 2021 19:57:44 GMT

United Spinal Association is co-hosting a webinar with PhRMA and Healthcare Ready on Tuesday May 18, 2021 at 12:30pm ET to review the science behind the COVID-19 vaccines and considerations for the spinal cord injury and diseases (SCI/D) and neurological conditions communities. This webinar will be shared over Zoom and on Facebook Live with closed-captions available and you will hear from experts and advocates alike with time for Q&A. Register here to tune in to hear the latest.

MEDICAID HOME AND COMMUNITY BASED SERVICES

Thu, 13 May 2021 20:09:07 GMT

CMS Issues Guidance on American Rescue Plan Funding for Medicaid Home and Community Based Services

Guidance Helps States Access Additional Federal Funds for Critical Services Supporting Older Adults and Individuals with Disabilities

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is issuing guidance on how states can receive enhanced funding, provided through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP), to increase access to home and community based services (HCBS) for Medicaid beneficiaries. These benefits provide critical services to millions of older adults and individuals with disabilities, allowing them to receive health services in their homes and communities, rather than in nursing homes and other institutions. Today’s guidance is a key tool to assist states in leveraging federal resources to increase health equity in Medicaid beneficiaries’ access to HCBS, positive health outcomes, and community integration.

As the pandemic continues to impact health care, it is important that Medicaid beneficiaries with long-term services and supports needs receive the assistance required to live in the setting of their choice, including their own home. The additional federal funding made available under the American Rescue Plan allows states to tailor HCBS enhancements based on the needs and priorities of its residents, while protecting and strengthening the HCBS workforce, safeguarding financial stability for HCBS providers, and accelerating long-term services and supports reform and innovation.

“Millions of individuals across the county – including people with disabilities and older Americans – rely on home based care and the workforce that provides that critical care. The Biden-Harris Administration continues to support states and workers by making critically needed investments in home and community based services,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “The American Rescue Plan helps to ensure that states can benefit from an increased federal investment in HCBS systems across the country, so that Medicaid beneficiaries receive high quality, cost-effective, person-centered services in their homes and remain a valued part of their communities.”

Section 9817 of the ARP provides states with a temporary 10 percentage point increase to the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for certain Medicaid HCBS from April 1, 2021 through March 31, 2022 to improve HCBS under the Medicaid program. The guidance that was issued to states via a State Medicaid Director Letter outlines the eligible services and parameters for which states can claim the increased FMAP, and provides examples of activities that states can implement to enhance, expand, or strengthen HCBS.

Review the State Medicaid Director Letter

STIMULUS MONEY FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Tue, 11 May 2021 20:13:28 GMT

The recent federal American Rescue Plan (ARP), passed into law by Congress, provides an unprecedented investment in education, giving schools and districts access to funds to address the needs of students more holistically. For more information on you might take advantage of this opportunity, please visit the Center for Learner Equity and review their latest publication, The Rising Tide that Lifts All Boats: Investing Stimulus Dollars with an Equity Focus .

Call to Action on Post-Acute Sequelae of SARSCoV-2 infection (“PASC” or “Long COVID”)

Sat, 01 May 2021 18:42:30 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Equitable Vaccine Distribution

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 18:47:18 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Rescinding the Interim Final Rule "Temporary FMAP Increase During the PHE for COVID-19

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 18:50:48 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Introducing the HAB Coalition to Secretary Becerra the New Secretary of Health and Human Services

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 18:49:03 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Disability Discrimination in Health Programs or Activities

brooke@weldonglobal.com (Brooke Weldon) — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 19:52:34 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Commensurate Medicaid Funding Increases

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 19:54:05 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Letter to the White House on FY 22 IDEA Funding

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 19:55:26 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Support for the COVID Relief Bill for People with Disabilities, Older Adults, and Individuals, Predominantly Low-Income Women of Color, Who Make Up Part of the Direct Care Workforce

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 19:58:21 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA ANNUAL SUBMISSION DEADLINE EXTENDED!

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 21:39:12 GMT

The deadline for submission of manuscripts to Volume 28 of the ATRA Annual has been extended to March 12, 2021. Please see the updated Call for Manuscripts for additional information.

Proposed Review Choice Demonstration for Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Services

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 20:00:01 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Provide Supplemental Funding in the Next COVID Relief Package for the IDEA

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 20:03:16 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Letter to Congress to Address the Needs of Children with Disabilities in Emergency Relief Bills

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 20:01:30 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

Importance of State Assessments and Strong Accountability for Students with Disabilities

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 20:04:56 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

SUPREME COURT ARGUMENTS IN ACA CASE

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 21:50:31 GMT

Please make sure to review this memo provided by our legislative consultant summarizing the Supreme Court arguments on the Affordable Care Act. As more information becomes available, we will be sure to post it on the website.

ATRA 2020 HAS STARTED!

brent@atra-online.com (Brent Wolfe) — Sat, 17 Oct 2020 20:52:33 GMT

Our first ever virtual conference is officially underway! Make sure to join us at the conference platform !

Also for more information about the conference, check out our welcome video !

LATEST EDITION OF THE NEWSLETTER

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 20:54:45 GMT

Make sure to check out our newly redesigned newsletter ! We have changed the entire look and feel to make articles and information more streamlined and easier to find. The one thing we didn't change - your ability to earn CEUs through the newsletter! Give it a look!

ATRA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2020!!!

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 20:57:28 GMT

We are so excited to bring to you our first ever fully virtual conference! This year's conference is going to be amazing as well celebrate recreational therapists and your heroic work! While many of you may have attend a virtual conference, the ATRA Virtual Conference promises to be filled with exciting social opportunities, challenging educational sessions, interactive breakout rooms, and opportunities for more CEU's than you've ever been able to earn at an ATRA conference. All for a reduced price!

Make sure to visit the official ATRA Annual Conference 2020 webpage for all the information!

IRF FINAL RULE RELEASED

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 20:59:49 GMT

FY2021 Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System Final Rule was released in August. While there were no specific changes that directly impact Recreational Therapists, there a few issues to be aware of:

CMS did not finalize allowing non-physician providers (like physician assistants and nurse practitioners) to perform required documentation for coverage. This must still be done by the physiatrist. Non-physician providers are permitted to conduct one of the three required face-to-face visits with patient each week.
CMS will no longer require a post-admission physician evaluation for discharges starting October 1, 2020.
CMS is working on codifying specific language relate to pre-admission screening, and is removing three elements from that screening.
The Final Rule provided an overall update of 2.8 percent for FY2021 relative to 2020 payments

The rules go into effect around October 4, 2020. CMS acknowledged receipt of ATRA’s comments regarding the inclusion of Recreational Therapy within the “three hour rule” but issued no response.

NEW OLDER ADULT TOWN HALL MEETING

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 21:03:00 GMT

Make sure to visit our Town Hall Meetings page to view the last town hall on the effects of COVID-19 on the role of the recreational therapists working with older adults.

ATRA STATEMENT ON RACIAL INJUSTICE

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 21:09:18 GMT

ATRA is an association that recognizes the value of people regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs. People are valuable simply because of their humanity and ATRA values the myriad of differences that create the human race. Our members, and those recreational therapists we represent, are incredibly diverse and we are tremendously grateful for that truth and believe that our diversity makes us stronger.

But today, ATRA wants to specifically condemn the systematic and ongoing injustice that is particularly aimed at members of the black community. We condemn racism. We condemn the judging of people based on their skin color. And we stand firmly and proudly with those who have experienced racism and judgement solely based on the color of their skin. ATRA will not tolerate racism in any form. We stand in support of our black and minority members, recreational therapists, and clients.

Full Statement

Response to NIH Request for Information to Advance and Strengthen Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the Biomedical Research Workforce and Advance Health Disparities and Health Equity Research

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 18:45:34 GMT

Read the Support Letter HERE

ATRA'S TELEHEALTH STATEMENT

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 21:11:39 GMT

ATRA's Statement on Telehealth

As facilities, agencies, and organizations are working to provide services within the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, much attention is being placed on telehealth, remote communications, and providing services from a distance. Please read the entire memo and share it with all necessary stakeholder.

RECREATIONAL THERAPISTS ARE ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 21:39:39 GMT

ATRA's Statement on Recreational Therapists as Essential Personnel

As facilities, agencies, and organizations are working to define “essential personnel,” it is vital for all stakeholders to understand that certified and/or licensed Recreational Therapists are essential personnel. Please review ATRA's statement on this issue and share it with all who would benefit.

CALL TO ACTION FOR CTRSS WORKING IN BEHAVIORAL HEALTH/CHILD AND YOUTH PROGRAMS

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 21:51:35 GMT

Call to Action for CTRSs working in Behavioral Health/Child and Youth Programs

CARF is requesting assistance through a field review/survey on the Crisis Stabilization standards. The ATRA CARF team requests that CTRSs working in Behavioral Health in Child and Youth Program complete the survey, representing the views and experience of recreational therapists. If you are interested in participating in this, please email Jacki Williford at jwilliford4@live.com (please use the Subject: ATRA/CARF) or via the Mental Health Section blog on the ATRA website by March 28, 2020 (responses are due April 1). Jacki will send you the link to the survey. Thank you!

DHHS TELEHEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 21:49:28 GMT

The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released guidance on telehealth remote communication during the COVID19 nationwide public health emergency:

Under this Notice, Facebook Live, Twitch, TikTok, and similar video communication applications are considered public-facing and should not be used in the provision of telehealth by covered health care providers. RTs should note that using Telehealth is NOT an allowance for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) rules to be disregarded or broken under any other circumstances at this time.

This recent HHS notice lists vendors that provide HIPAA- compliant video communication products and that they will enter into a HIPAA business associate agreements (BAA):

• Skype for Business
• Updox
• VSee
• Doxy.me
• Zoom for Healthcare
• Google G Suite Hangouts Meet
• Other platforms may be added as information resources become available.

THE FAMILIES FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 21:45:21 GMT

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act

Congress and the Trump Administration have taken several key steps to address the expanding public health crisis caused by the coronavirus, officially known as COVID-19, while at the same time trying to staunch the negative repercussions currently affecting the nation’s employment and financial markets. On March 6, 2020, the President signed an emergency supplemental appropriations bill, marking the first major effort to address the coronavirus pandemic. The full text of the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act can be found here , and our memo summarizing the major provisions can be found here . This “Coronavirus 1.0” package includes more than $8 billion in emergency funding for federal agencies, state and local governments, and community health centers to fund the pandemic response, as well as a series of provisions to expand access to telehealth for Medicare patients.

On March 14, the House of Representatives passed a second “Coronavirus 2.0” package, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA); the Senate passed the bill on March 18, and the President signed it into law later the same day. The following is a summary of the legislative provisions in this second emergency bill. The full text of the legislation can be found here .

You may view the entirety of the report prepared by our legislative council here .

THE CORONAVIRUS PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 21:54:27 GMT

Congress and the Trump Administration have taken several key steps to address the expanding public health crisis caused by the coronavirus, known as COVID-19, while at the same time trying to staunch the negative repercussions currently affecting the nation’s employment and financial markets. Following is a summary of the emergency spending bill enacted earlier this month to fight the epidemic. It is followed by a brief description of a series of waivers issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), which grant health care providers greater flexibility in treating patients. Included thereafter is a link to new CMS requirements that limit visitors and communal activities in nursing homes, while implementing screening for fever and respiratory symptoms among their residents.

Please take the time to read the entire statement prepared for ATRA by our legislative council.

ATRA'S STATEMENT ON COVID-19

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 22:00:36 GMT

ATRA recognizes that COVID-19 is a very serious public health concern and we are continuing to monitor up-to-date information from the Centers for Disease Control , the World Health Organization , and the United States Department of Health and Human Services . Our primary focus is on the health, safety, and well-being of all recreational therapists and those we serve.

While we currently do not have concerns regarding our conference in September, we understand that there are recreational therapy conferences that have canceled and others that are considering canceling. We would encourage all conference coordinators and planning committees to discuss the most prudent path for their conference with state, local, and national authorities.

Additionally, ATRA is in the process of contacting conference organizers and offering our assistance in regards to making educational opportunities available online. We want to ensure our members that we are working vigilantly to ensure that the content you need is made available to you.

We strongly encourage all conferences to follow recommendations and best practices from these entities. Additionally, we recommend that recreational therapists protect themselves and their patients by following steps to prevention as proposed by the CDC.

SPRING 2020 NEWSLETTER

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 23:03:07 GMT

Are you feeling the RT Vibe this RT Month? 2020 is off to a great start with many things to look forward to this year. We are very excited for the Annual ATRA Conference in Birmingham in September that is quickly approaching. This edition of the Spring Newsletter has great information on our strategic plan, the CTRS approach to APIED, and many other amazing topics! Please also make sure you participate in our scholarship fundraiser #APIED4ATRA and check out the Call for Papers for the annual conference. This newsletter is worth .15 CEU's if a passing score of 70% is achieved.

BOARD NOMINATIONS & ELECTIONS

Sat, 18 Jan 2020 23:05:30 GMT

It's time for Board nominations and elections! This year we have 5 open positions - President-Elect, Treasurer, and three Members-at-Large. Please consider nominating yourself or someone else for an exciting opportunity to be involved in your national association!

Additional information regarding all of these open positions can be found on our nominations and elections page .

ACON 2020 IN BIRMINGHAM!

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 23:10:01 GMT

ACON 2020 will be IN Birmingham from September 12-15, 2020

Be on the lookout for more information and the call for papers!

FALL 2019 NEWSLETTER

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 23:08:28 GMT

THE FALL 2019 ATRA NEWSLETTER IS NOW AVAILABLE. MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT ALL OF THE HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN RENO!

ATRA 2025 - ATRA'S NEW STRATEGIC PLAN

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 23:41:10 GMT

ATRA 2025 - ATRA's new Strategic Plan!

ATRA POSITION STATEMENT ON ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 22:49:45 GMT

POSITION STATEMENT ON ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION

ATRA believes that a single form of academic program accreditation is essential in ensuring consistent content and rigor among undergraduate recreational therapy programs. One of ATRA’s Guiding Principles is our belief in “evidenced based practice, professional credentialing, and accreditation” (ATRA, 2015). Additionally, one of the key findings from the ATRA Higher Education Task Force was to strengthen and standardize undergraduate recreational therapy curricula.

Current Status:

In support of our guiding principles, findings from the Higher Education Task Force, and in support of consistent RT educational experiences, ATRA sponsors the Committee on Accreditation of Recreational Therapy Education (CARTE) . ATRA believes accreditation through CARTE is the best method for ensuring consistent content and rigor within undergraduate RT educational programs due to its sole focus on curriculum competencies related to recreational therapy.

Adopted by ATRA Board of Directors | August 2019

PAPERWORK REDUCTION AND 3-HOUR RULE REQUEST FOR INFORMATION TO CMS--AUGUST 2019

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 22:43:15 GMT

Thank you for advocating for our profession! Did you receive any reply from CMS regarding this request? Our profession is overdue for full recognition by state and federal agencies, as an effective and valuable treatment modality same as PT, OT, SLP, etc.

CCD Veterans Task Force Seeks Funding Support to Establish Disabled Veteran Program at Department of Labor

Wed, 01 May 2019 19:52:18 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

CCD Health Care Principles

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 19:49:46 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

Statement in Support of Creating a Disabled Veteran Program at DOL VETS

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 20:54:13 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

CCD Sign-on Letter Regarding Seclusion and Restraints in Schools

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 20:57:15 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

Medicaid Follows the Person

brent@atra-online.com (Brent Wolfe) — Mon, 10 Dec 2018 20:59:07 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

CCD Autonomous Vehicle Comments and Principles Comments

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 21:02:35 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

CCD Autonomous Vehicle Comments and Principles

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 21:00:49 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

Section 1332 Waivers and HRA Policies/Affordable Care Act State Insurance Waivers

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 21:04:17 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

CCD Sign On Letter Regarding Veterans Rights

Sun, 18 Nov 2018 21:05:44 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

FROM OUR PAST PRESIDENT

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 23:57:43 GMT

Dear ATRA Members,

It was a true honor to serve as your President this past year. Thank you for electing me, working with the Board and I, and working to improve the lives of your clients. I’d like to use this opportunity to highlight the big events of the past year.

We kicked off the year by voting on a new logo. You’ll find this new logo on all things ATRA! The logo demonstrates movement forward for the field and the organization. One way that we moved forward this year was to hire new staff. We hired a new management company, located in Reston, Virginia called DMG (now called Virtual, Inc.). Our Executive Director is an employee of Virtual, and her name is Julie Utano. Julie’s assistant is Laura Albrecht. We also hired Dr. Michelle Bateman to lead the ATRA Academy—and she’s done a great job of creating a tremendous roster of ATRA Zoominars for your continuing education pleasure! Paige O’Sullivan has brought increased traffic and attention to ATRA on social media as our new Social Media Coordinator. We are grateful for all of our new staff, and their work on behalf of the organization.

An important focus this year was making connections and moving forward. We made or maintained connections with NCTRC, CARTE, CTRA, and the RTF. We have a new partnership this year with Sagamore-Venture Publishing, which has resulted in a tremendous amount of benefits to the
ATRA member. We are moving forward with new research focused initiatives by joining the Disability Rehabilitation Research Council (DRRC) and continued focus on public policy.

The Higher Education Task Force, led by Drs. Marcia Carter and Brent Hawkins, examined the education requirements for entry-level practice for the field. Their comprehensive study yielded the following recommendations, which are being addressed by a new task force, called the North American Collaboration on RT Education, which has members of ATRA BOD, NCTRC, CTRA, and CARTE:

Entry-level education should be the bachelor’s degree with increased and improved fieldwork experiences across curricula.
Require that all RT/TR curricula to show consistency in learning outcomes that reflect entry-level competencies in the field.
Incorporate new and increasing levels of competencies into bachelor’s and master’s RT/TR curricula.
Improve the infrastructure for a graduated progression of quality fieldwork experiences.
Determine effective models that will ensure quality, consistency, access, and affordability in graduate education to advance practice and the profession.

I want to reiterate my support for these recommendations. Moving towards a stronger uniform curriculum prior to requiring a master’s degree is an essential step.
I also want to thank all volunteers who spend their time working on committees, task forces, and activities related to our organization. We literally could not do it without you.

Past-President Sharon Nichols shared the idea of “Disrupt RT” at the conference. I really appreciated this suggestion to disrupt the way we’ve moved away from leisure. Leisure is our intervention. We measure functional outcomes related to recreation and leisure-based interventions. That is what makes us RT!

It is also essential that we all move forward by:

NOT using the terms CLINICAL vs COMMUNITY to:
— Define if something is RT OR NOT.
— Indicate that ONE HAS MORE VALUE than the other.
— Define who belongs in ATRA.
— RT uses the APIED process.
— COMMUNITY-BASED provision of RT is EQUALLY IMPORTANT as inpatient RT.

Please know, and spread the word that EVERYONE WHO PRACTICES RT BELONGS IN ATRA!

In closing, I would like to thank the 2017-2018 ATRA BOD. Thank you for your support and super hard work! Thank you also to the Clemson faculty, who picked up the pieces I couldn’t this past year, and a huge thanks to my sweet husband, Charles, for being a total rockstar.

Thank you to all of you for your support and continued efforts on behalf of the organization.

Most sincerely,

Marieke Van Puymbroeck, PhD, CTRS, FDRT
ATRA Past-President

Memo RE Opioid Bill

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 20:07:56 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

ATRA Memo - OIG Report on High Rate of IRF Errors October 2018

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 20:09:34 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

MedPac Update 2018

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 20:13:59 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

MHLG Supports Medicaid Demo SUD Provider Capacity in Final Opiod Package September 2018

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 20:18:43 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

Accessible Exercise Equipment letter to Senator Duckworth

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 20:15:33 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

2018 Annual Conference Public Policy Update Presentation - Peter Thomas, JD

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 20:12:30 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

CPR Sign On letter re: Medicare Advantage

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 20:16:39 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

CCD Health Reform Principles September 2018

Sat, 01 Sep 2018 20:21:45 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

CCD Farm Bill Conferees Letter Aug 14 2018

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 20:23:52 GMT

Click HERE to Learn More

PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION FOR ANNIVERSARY OF ADA

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 23:00:55 GMT

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 25, 2018
ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, 2018

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

On the 28th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we celebrate this historic legislation, which echoed our Nation's founding promise to recognize and secure the equal rights of all men and women. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to cultivate further opportunities for all Americans to live full and independent lives, and recognize the many contributions enabled by expanded participation of Americans with disabilities in our society.

President George H.W. Bush signed the ADA into law on July 26, 1990. It has transformed the lives of millions of Americans living with disabilities by promoting their equal access to employment, government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and public transportation. Today, people of all ages with disabilities are better able to thrive in the community, pursue careers, contribute to our economy, and fully participate in American society.

Our Nation must continue to build upon this foundation and continue to further the participation of the more than 56 million Americans living with disabilities. My Administration continues to encourage research that will lead to advancements in technology, medicine, and other fields and better enable independent living. We are also expanding and promoting equal education and employment opportunities for Americans with disabilities to live and work. In this regard, in June of last year, I signed an Executive Order to develop more apprenticeship programs for all people, including those with disabilities. Additional training will encourage better involvement from businesses and allow people with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to a wide variety of industries.

As we commemorate the anniversary of the ADA, we recommit ourselves to fostering an environment in which all Americans have the opportunity to pursue the American Dream.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2018, as a day in celebration of the 28th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities that celebrate the contributions of Americans with disabilities and to renew our commitment to achieving the promise of our freedom for all Americans.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third.

DONALD J. TRUMP

ACTION ALERT: #EXPANDABLE

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 17:56:43 GMT

ACTION ALERT: CELEBRATE THE 28th ANNIVERSARY OF THE ADA BY HELPING TO PASS THE ABLE AGE ADJUSTMENT ACT: National Call-in Day – Thursday, July 26, 2018

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. To celebrate the 28th anniversary of its enactment, please take a few minutes to call or email your legislators to ask them to support the ABLE Age Adjustment Act ( S.817 / HR 1874 ). This bill would amend Section 529A(e) of the Internal Revenue Code to increase the eligibility for Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts for onset of disability from prior to age 26 to prior to age 46 so that millions more people with disabilities can take advantage of this important savings tool. Despite nearly three decades under ADA law, people with disabilities still regularly encounter discrimination in many aspects of life, including lacking financial opportunities to save for their future and enhance their quality of life. Together we can advocate to #ExpandABLE and pass the #ABLEAgeAdjustment Act.

BACKGROUND

First introduced in the 114th Congress, the bipartisan ABLE Age Adjustment Act was re-introduced in the 115th Congress by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Richard Burr (R-NC), and Representatives Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Pete Sessions (R-TX), Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), Chris Smith (R-NJ), and Jim Langevin (D-RI). The limitation on eligibility based on age of onset of disability did not exist in the original ABLE legislation, but was added at the end of the ABLE Act's nearly ten-year legislative history to reduce the bill's score and get it over the finish line. This concession resulted in otherwise-eligible individuals with disabilities - many of whom fought for years to get the ABLE Act passed - being prevented from realizing the benefits associated with the ABLE Act based solely on the age at which they became disabled. Nearly 160 other organizations from across the country, believe that ABLE should be expanded to include more people with disabilities, see the letter here: http://www.c-c-d.org/fichiers/CCD-Fin-Sec-TF-and-Allies-Sign-On-Letter-for-ABLE-Age-Adjustment-Act-H.R.1874-S.817-June-22-2018.pdf urging Congress to pass this bill this session.

Beyond the fairness/equity argument for increasing the age of onset, it has now become a financial imperative to pass the ABLE Age Adjustment Act. There are currently thirty-eight states with ABLE programs, yet data collected by the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST) shows that the number of ABLE accounts being opened is much lower than anticipated. The long-term sustainability, availability, and affordability of some ABLE programs for individuals with disabilities are in doubt without this expansion of eligibility (See https://nast.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ABLE_Sustainability-Report_FINAL_04-09-18.pdf_ for the NAST Sustainability Report).

For more information about ABLE accounts, please visit the ABLE National Resource Center at www.ablenrc.org .

TAKE ACTION

Ask your Senators and Representatives to support people with disabilities and their families by cosponsoring the bipartisan ABLE Age Adjustment Act (S. 817/ HR 1874). Expanding the age of onset is the right thing to do and will give more than 6 million additional people with disabilities access to this important savings tool that enables them to accumulate more than $2000 in assets without jeopardizing their benefits. Whether or not you are currently eligible for an ABLE account, we all have a stake in ensuring the success of ABLE programs so that they are sustainable and so that costs for all ABLE account owners are kept low.

Please contact your congressional members and ask them to cosponsor the ABLE Age Adjustment Act today!

To find your Senators go here: https://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

To find your House of Representatives members go here: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

TALKING POINTS

I am your constituent from [name of city and state].
I am calling to ask Senator/Representative [NAME] to cosponsor the ABLE Age Adjustment Act (S. 817/ HR 1874).
ABLE accounts are important to people with disabilities because they allow them the opportunity to save more than $2000 in assets -to be spent on disability related expenses - without jeopardizing their much-needed public benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid.
Unfortunately, only people whose disabilities occurred prior to age 26 are currently eligible for ABLE accounts.
By increasing age of onset from before age 26 to before age 46, this bill will enable at least 6 million more people with disabilities to open an ABLE account and enhance their financial independence and quality of life.
It will also increase the likelihood that ABLE programs across the country will be sustainable and costs will be kept low.

I hope we can count on Senator/Representative [NAME] to support the disability community and cosponsor the ABLE Age Adjustment Act!

ATRA 2018 ELECTION RESULTS

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 18:41:11 GMT

ATRA 2019 ELECTION RESULTS

This year we had a great ballot put forward for the 2018 American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) elections, and ATRA members responded by recording the second highest voting turnout in the past five years! A huge thank you to Nominations and Election Committee, and particularly Karen Wenzel, Ph.D.c., CTRS, for their support and willingness to serve ATRA in this very important process.

On behalf of the ATRA Board of Directors and the Nominations and Election Committee, we are pleased to announce and introduce the new President-Elect and two new board members-at-large for the 2019 Board of Directors.

RANDY WYBLE, MS, CTRS
2019 PRESIDENT-ELECT

Randy began working in the field in 1987 in an adult day treatment program and finished hisMaster’s in Recreation with a TR emphasis from Michigan State University (MSU) in 1989. In 1993 he switched to an inpatient adult psychiatric unit and then, in 1994, he was appointed the Lead Activity Therapist for Sparrow Hospital’s Behavioral Health programs in Lansing, Michigan. Randy was recruited to teach MSU’s TR courses from 1998-2001 as an adjunct faculty member until they discontinued the emphasis in 2001. During that time, he became active as a board member for the Michigan Therapeutic Recreation Association (MTRA) and worked to coordinate their annual conference which took place on the campus of MSU.

In 2002 he moved to New Zealand and was employed as a TR faculty member. While there, Randy helped establish the New Zealand Therapeutic Recreation Association. Upon returning to the USA in 2004 he was rehired by Sparrow and resumed as Lead Activity Therapist until being hired as a TR faculty member at GVSU in 2008.

Since that time, he has served as the TR program director (2013-2016) and am currently the chair for Diagnostic and Treatment Sciences, the department housing the TR program. During the last eight years, he has been actively involved in both ATRA and MTRA, serving in various capacities and presenting many times at both state and national conferences.

TRACEY CRAWFORD, CTRS, CPRP
2019 MEMBER AT LARGE

Tracey strives to continually enhance her knowledge of best practices in the field of therapeutic recreation/recreation therapy and give back to the profession that has given her a career she loves and the opportunity to change lives in the communities that she serves.

She feels is critical to the communities that we serve that all people with disabilities have access to recreation! Keeping up with the ever-changing needs of individuals with disabilities in the community requires that recreation therapists, act as agents of change and take the lead to work as one profession. To accomplish this, a continued pursuit of learning, sharing and growing together must take place by all involved. All TR/RT professionals need to work together to provide seamless services from clinical, rehab, psych to the community

Tracey also believes that we as a profession and a board need to strive for more diversity. Our society is changing. Our workforce and leadership has not evolved as quickly. We as a profession must address this, our customers and patients, with disabilities, deserve service by professionals with a rich mix of backgrounds.

LAURA KELLY, MS, CTRS
2019 MEMBER AT LARGE

Laura has served as the Recreational Therapy (RT) Director at ManorCare for the past seven years, as well serving as an adjunct instructor at Georgia Southern University for the past five.

She has been ATRA’s Older Adult Section Co- Chair for the past two years. As a section, they have developed competencies, increased advocacy and external marketing efforts (e.g., universities, multi-disciplinary conferences), and continue to refine and expand their evidence-based practice research and programming. She believes her most significant contributions to ATRA are her conference presentations and webinars focusing on key, relevant topics such as evidence-based practice, as well as serving as a consultant and reliable resource to members looking to start and/or expand current RT programming.

Laura also serves as the “President- Elect” of the Georgia Therapeutic Recreation Association, in which she has benefited from vast experiences and opportunities including public policy initiatives to obtain state licensure, conference event planning, membership marketing, website development, and board member liability insurance.

WELCOME RANDY, TRACEY, AND LAURA!!

Here is your full 2018-19 ATRA Board of Directors, effective September 2018 -

President Tim Passmore, EdD, MS, CTRS

President Elect Randy Wyble, MS, CTRS

Past-President Marieke VanPuymbroeck, PhD, CTRS, FDRT

Secretary Betsy Kemeny, PhD, CTRS

Treasurer Brent Wolfe, PhD, CTRS

Member at Large Tracey Crawford, CTRS, CPRP

Member at Large Laura Kelly, MS, CTRS

Member at Large Kathy Davis, MA, CTRS

Member at Large Vinnie Bonadies, MS, CTRS

Member at Large Taylor Hooker, MS, CTRS

Member at Large Thea Kavanaugh, PhD, CTRS

RAISE Family Caregivers Act HHS Implementation Group Letter June 2018

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 20:28:43 GMT

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RAISE Family Caregivers Act HHS Implementation Group

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 20:11:03 GMT

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CPR Comment Letter - IRF FY 2019

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 20:25:39 GMT

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ATRA LEGISLATIVE ALERT | JUNE 25, 2018

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 18:45:30 GMT

MEDICARE PROGRAM; PROSPECTIVE PAYMENT SYSTEM AND CONSOLIDATED BILLING FOR SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES (SNF) PROPOSED RULE FOR FY 2019, SNF VALUE-BASED PURCHASING PROGRAM, AND SNF QUALITY REPORTING PROGRAM

A PROPOSED RULE BY THE CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES ON 05/08/2018

SUMMARY:

This proposed rule would update the payment rates used under the prospective payment system (PPS) for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) for fiscal year (FY) 2019. This proposed rule also proposes to replace the existing case-mix classification methodology, the Resource Utilization Groups, Version IV (RUG-IV) model, with a revised case-mix methodology called the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) effective October 1, 2019. It also proposes revisions to the regulation text that describes a beneficiary's SNF “resident” status under the consolidated billing provision and the required content of the SNF level of care certification. The proposed rule also includes proposals for the SNF Quality Reporting Program (QRP) and the Skilled Nursing Facility Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program that will affect Medicare payment to SNFs.

Click Here to Read More

ATRA Comments IRF Quality Measures 2019

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 20:35:44 GMT

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Copy of ATRA Comments to SNF Qualify Measures 2019

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 20:34:07 GMT

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ATRA Comments to SNF Qualify Measures 2019

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 20:32:25 GMT

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CCDE Comments on Pallone LTC Discussion

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 20:27:13 GMT

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ATRA SUBMITS COMMENTS FOR CMS MEDICARE PROPOSED RULES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2019

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 18:51:49 GMT

ATRA’s Federal Public Policy Committee has been busy reviewing and discussing the CMS Medicare Proposed Rules for Fiscal Year 2019. Comments have been submitted by ATRA for Hospice, Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities, and Skilled Nursing Facilities ( click here to view comments ). Members were encouraged to submit comments, and Federal Public Policy Advocates with expertise in these settings offered assistance in the review and drafting of ATRA comments. ATRA’s lobbyist provided support and information as well. If you are interested in being an ATRA Advocate and getting involved in this way, please reach out to the Federal Public Policy team at FPP@atra-online.com .

RECREATION THERAPY AND THE ROLE OF PARKS

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 18:54:09 GMT

June 5, 2018, Department, by Anthony Martino

SOURCE:

PARKS & RECREATION MAGAZINE

Recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation — synonymous terms; yet, to many people, they mean vastly different things. So, can we clarify why there is such a difference of opinion in the name and what future trends are pertaining to recreation professionals?

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics’ “Occupational Outlook Handbook,” employment for recreation therapists is set to grow 7 percent by 2026. Given this rate of growth, the field may experience an influx of therapists. But, what they call themselves directly impacts their future.

In 1966, the pioneers in the field worked to better define the roles of individuals who entered it. Still, what they called themselves varied depending on who you spoke with. Nonetheless, recreation therapists were gaining support, as professional organizations, like NRPA, began representing them, but they still struggled as the years went on. Their responsibilities grew, yet they were having a difficult time defining who they were and what they did. They began to make advocacy their No. 1 goal, and as the field continued to grow, the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) formed in 1981.

The idea was to show that recreation therapists had a body of knowledge and were deemed qualified to provide services to the public. NCTRC began to compile data regarding those among their group who achieved certification. This data was used over the years to assist with better defining their roles. NCTRC currently defines recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, as a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being. Eventually, regulatory agencies, whose language did not require a certified, credentialed individual to provide services in nursing homes and hospitals, began changing to the use of verbiage, such as “must be a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or another licensed qualified individual.” Though not completely independent and recognized, it was a step in the right direction.

However, because the language still allowed for others to provide services that recreation therapists also provide, confusion still existed as to what to call themselves and why it is important. Licensure has been something that many individuals have pursued over the years following the certification inception.

Lately, recreation therapists have been expanding their scope of practice into park and recreation departments. This is due to several factors, including increased efforts to create an inclusive environment for all community members. Park and recreation patrons of all abilities and backgrounds are taking advantage of park and recreation facilities and programs, which creates a parallel between healthcare facilities and parks and community centers.

As those with physical and cognitive disability travel the path of actively needing physical and occupational therapy to lead a more independent lifestyle, they are using park grounds and facilities. This has created an avenue for recreation therapists to assist in the transition and continued use of these facilities.

Licensure will help protect what recreation therapists do and ensure that their expertise carries on into the future. What they call themselves is recreation therapists, and their expertise in the provision of recreation services is important to those receiving their knowledge and skilled services.

Anthony Martino is a Recreational Therapist for North Shore-LIJ Health System Southside

ATRA SUBMITS COMMENTS ON LONG-TERM CARE DISCUSSION DRAFT

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 18:06:46 GMT

Through it's membership with the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, ATRA Submitted the

following comments are submitted in response to the discussion draft The Medicare Long-Term Care Services and Supports Act, released on May 2, 2018. We appreciate the opportunity to submit comments and appreciate your leadership on the issue of long-term care, and acknowledgment of this extremely important topic for people with disabilities.

The Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is the largest coalition of national organizations working together to advocate for federal public policy that ensures the self-determination, independence, empowerment, integration and inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in all aspects of society. Since its creation, CCD has advocated for expanding access to long term services and supports (LTSS) and has played a crucial role in the creation of federal programs expanding access to home and community-based services (HCBS). Most recently, in 2016, after a series of reports were released on the topic, CCD released this statement outlining our principles for comprehensive long-term services and supports (LTSS) finance reform.

The problem is clear: while our nation is aging and people are living longer with disabilities and chronic conditions, we lack a coherent plan on how to provide for their care and supports. Our current financing system relies almost entirely on Medicaid and unpaid family caregivers, both of which disincentivize family financial planning; hinder the economic opportunities of women, people of color, and people with disabilities; and often force people and families into financial devastation to get the services they need. We are delighted that you have recognized this important issue and The Medicare Long-Term Care Services and Supports Act provides the framework for one of the many important steps to address the long-term care crisis that faces the Nation.

There are some concerns and questions we have about the discussion draft, and suggestions that we have in response to your request for additional ideas for a holistic approach to long-term care.

Detailed Concerns and Questions regarding The Medicare Long-Term Care Services and Supports Act Discussion Draft:

Benefit: How this benefit would interact with other Federal programs will need to be clarified. In particular, interactions between the benefit and Medicaid Managed Care and Medicare Advantage must be clarified in statute, not delegated to the Secretary. In addition, we believe that page 26, lines 15 and 16 contain a typographical error with regard to the amount of the benefit retained by the individual when enrolled in a PACE program. We believe that amount was meant to be 5%, consistent with individuals in institutional settings. We detail additional considerations regarding the Medicaid program below. Nonetheless, we strongly believe that the overall flexibility of the benefit is positive.

Assessment: It is very important that more is done to build out the assessment process. The assessment of eligibility should be done in a consistent and uniform way, capturing all individuals with disabilities (including, specifically, people with developmental and mental health disabilities who are often omitted in such assessments). CCD is happy to advise on how to best approach this.

Eligibility: Eligibility determinations should be made outside of existing systems. We are pleased to see that the legislation considers functional eligibility broadly, as evidenced by the definition of a Qualified Individual on page 4. We stress the need for an assessment and eligibility process which is fully inclusive of individuals with a wide range of developmental and mental health disabilities, including those whose functional impairments mainly impact Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. We believe this would be further strengthened by replacing the “such-as” on line 12 with “including.”

The language should also clarify that amounts included in an individual’s ABLE account, health savings accounts, etc. are also disregarded for purposes of determining eligibility for this benefit.

Miscellaneous concerns: The 3-month rollover period noted on page 12 line 19 should be modified to 1 year, to better reflect that reality that some disability-related purchases may require a long period of saving.

Finally, throughout the bill, instances of the phrase “mental retardation,” such as in references to Intermediate Care Facilities for the Mentally Retarded, should be replaced by “intellectual disabilities,” consistent with Rosa’s Law.

In the assessment and eligibility components of the bill there is a real risk of missing small subpopulations of individuals who are currently not part of many state or federal LTSS programs. This includes individuals with developmental disabilities, who don’t qualify for SSI but have not worked enough quarters to be classified as “working disabled”, the mental health community, individuals with dual-diagnoses, and low-income populations who do not qualify for Medicaid, such as immigrants who have not met permanent residency requirements. From a scoring perspective, these populations are relatively small, but CCD views their inclusion as an absolute necessity.

2 year waiting period: A two-year waiting period for this critical benefit will leave many lower to middle income persons in their current state, without any options. This could force people into financial devastation faster. Or, if they’re unable to afford the services and supports they need, people may forego services altogether—which could negatively impact their employment, health and independence. In addition, many people with disabilities require LTSS in order to work--so a waiting period prevents them from receiving the very services they need in order to work and earn their way onto the program, thus ensuring that they instead must fall back onto SSI, Medicaid, and a larger and often more expensive network of federally funded services. Therefore, CCD opposes having a waiting period for this benefit. If, however, a waiting period is included, CCD recommends that the length vary based on an individual’s income and resources and be as minimal as possible for those with the greatest financial need. Moreover, if the purpose of a waiting period is to encourage individuals to take personal responsibility and plan for LTSS needs (i.e. purchase private LTSS insurance), it is important to acknowledge and address the critical issue that individuals with pre-existing health conditions are increasingly precluded from purchasing such products.

Alignment of HCBS: It is important that any setting where the benefit is being used aligns with existing Federal and state programs and regulations, including the Home and Community Based Settings Rule. It is critical that alignment with the HCBS final rule be explicitly included in the legislation itself. We recommend striking “or in the community of the individual’s choice” from lines 16 & 17 on page 9, and “in another residential or community setting of their choice in the community” from lines 20-22 on page 21, and specifying that settings must be in compliance with the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Final Rule published on January 16, 2014 (79 Fed. Reg. 2947)) (referred to as the ‘HCBS final rule’).

Additional Ideas for a Holistic Approach to Long-Term Care

We are particularly supportive of The Medicare Long-Term Care Services and Supports Act because it expands access to LTSS in the Medicare program, which has historically had extremely limited coverage of these crucial services for both older adults and people with disabilities. That said, many people with disabilities require lifelong LTSS and CCD believes that all health insurance benefit packages should cover needed LTSS for individuals with disabilities. We will also note that the benefit coverage is insufficient for people with substantial LTSS needs. Long-term care reform should broadly expand access to LTSS, including for people with substantial LTSS needs, and The Medicare Long-Term Care Services and Supports Act is only part of the solution.

As Congress considers this bill, CCD would highlight our strong support for elements of this bill that could be adopted into other LTSS expansions:

It addresses the needs of and provides an avenue to LTSS for individuals with disabilities who are under 65 as well as older adults—we believe that any LTSS bill should address the needs of both populations.

The cash and counseling benefit model included in the bill—as it continues the push towards self-direction and autonomy, long supported by the disability community. There are many examples of programs where this model has worked for people with disabilities and the aging population, and CCD believes that this is a better approach than attempting to create a benefit package of specific proscribed services for the wide array of individuals who will be eligible for this benefit.

We would also urge Congress to considering the following issues: related to the existing LTSS infrastructure in Medicaid:

Challenges Accessing LTSS via Medicaid: Medicaid currently funds the majority of LTSS provided in the U.S. While Medicaid is a crucial safety net, there remains insufficient access to the LTSS of which Medicaid is often the only provider. Strict income and asset limits force people with disabilities into a catch-22 between their LTSS needs and their economic growth opportunities, thwart family financial planning, and hinder independence and employment.

Medicaid’s income and asset limits for people with disabilities and seniors are so low that earning or saving just over the limit still leaves an individual vastly below the kind of income or asset level that would allow an individual to pay out of pocket for LTSS. Strict asset limits further prevent people with disabilities from saving for their own retirement. For families and individuals who rely on Medicaid LTSS, leaving Medicaid isn’t an option. Some can figure out ways to structure funds to maintain LTSS access; most simply live in poverty. We strongly urge you to consider how to expand access to LTSS for people who would normally rely on Medicaid.

Streamlining and Reducing Institutional Bias: Medicaid also has an institutional bias that limits access to cost effective home and community-based services (HCBS). It is important that alongside this bill there are additional efforts to streamline all Medicaid HCBS authorities into a State Plan Option, continuing the enhanced federal match for these services; to expand the Medicaid Buy-In by creating a single national LTSS-only Medicaid buy-in program for workers with disabilities, similar to the Enhanced Medicaid Buy-In included in the Bipartisan Policy Center report; and to reverse the institutional bias in Medicaid to provide community-based services on an equal footing with institutional services. Equal access to HCBS is particularly important since Medicaid nursing home coverage is mandatory, while HCBS coverage is optional.

Moreover, as currently drafted, states receive different percentages of the of the Medicare Part E benefit based on setting and program (i.e. different amounts for HCBS, PACE, and institutional settings). This uneven distribution could result in unintentional consequences and an “institutional bias” since states would receive more benefit for institutional placements.

One way to incentivize these kinds of reforms would be to incorporate such streamlining as condition of The Medicare Long-Term Care Services and Supports Act. A state’s ability to receive a portion of an individual’s benefit could be tied to that state’s adoption of these proposals, as well as to the state meeting certain rebalancing targets. Furthermore, no state could be able to receive any portion of an individual’s benefit if the services provided to the individual by the state is less than the amount of services provided by the benefit.

Taken together, these proposals could ease state paperwork burden in providing HCBS, encourage more states to provide more HCBS, and allow more people with disabilities to work, earn, and save for the future. In addition to expanding current economic opportunity, a national LTSS-only Medicaid Buy-In Program should be seen not only as a work program, but also as a retirement savings mechanism by which people with disabilities have the freedom to save for their own retirement. Reversing the institutional bias achieves a long-term disability community objective of providing HCBS without waiting lists to all eligible people with disabilities.

Thank you again for your leadership on this issue. This is an important step, the first of many that our country must take so that people with disabilities and others have access to the LTSS they need to stay healthy and independent.

THE EFFECTS OF A COMBINED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, RECREATION, AND ART AND CRAFT PROGRAM ON ADL, COGNITION, AND DEPRESSION IN THE ELDERLY

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 19:02:31 GMT

BY: DEOKJU KIM

FROM: NCBI

ABSTRACT

[Purpose] To determine the effects of a combined physical activity, arts and crafts, and recreational program on the activities of daily living (ADL), cognitive function, and depression in the elderly. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-eight elderly persons aged 65 years or older who live in P City, South Korea participated in a program combining arts and crafts and physical and recreational activities, twice weekly for eight weeks (a total of 16 sessions). The subjects’ ADL, cognitive function, and depression were measured before and after the program using the following assessment instruments: the FIM, MMSE-K, and BDI, respectively. [Results] The results showed that, after the program intervention, ADL were remarkably improved for both men and women, cognitive function increased considerably, and depression levels significantly decreased, especially for elderly women. [Conclusion] The results of the present study indicate that a program combining physical and recreational activities, as well as arts and crafts, had positive effects on the health of the elderly and provide evidence for managing their health.

INTRODUCTION

In modern society, the average lifespan has been extended with rapid advances in medical technology and science, and the aging population is thus quickly increasing. The proportion of the elderly population tends to rise every year. The percentage of the elderly population aged 65 years or older out of South Korea’s total population is 12.2% and is expected to continue to increase, reaching 24.3% in 2030 and 37.4% in 20501). In elderly people, physical, cognitive, and social functioning decline occurs. Due to changes in cells and fibrous substances comprising body tissue, weight is reduced, cartilage tissue is deteriorated, and the functional degradation of body organs such as blood vessels and lungs occur2). In addition, the slowdown of concentration, attention, and memory becomes noticeable due to cognitive decline. According to one study, higher cognitive function in elderly people was associated with lower levels of depression3), and depressive symptoms increased in elderly people with cognitive decline, acting as a factor lowering the quality of life in elderly people4). Elderly people are at an increased risk for developing geriatric diseases such as cerebrovascular disease, degenerative disease, or dementia due to physical and cognitive decline and increased depressive disposition5).

Therefore, in order to maintain or improve physical and cognitive functions in elderly people and to induce their active social engagement, it is necessary to develop and implement a variety of intervention programs of interest to elderly people. Although community activities toward normal elderly people have been attempted to prevent their physical and cognitive decline, the number of related community activities is still insufficient, and the contents are limited to art therapy or music therapy6, 7). For such intervention programs, it is necessary to configure programs that are familiar or enjoyable to elderly people. In this regard, art and craft and recreational activities, or activities in which one can actively move one’s body, are very good to motivate elderly people. Art and craft can improve fine motor function, provide inner satisfaction through activities, help to recover self-confidence, and promote problem solving and learning abilities in elderly people. Recreational activities can help elderly people participate in activities and release positive and joyful energy8).

Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effects of a combined physical activity, art and craft, and recreational activity program, which has not often been attempted, on the activities of daily living (ADL), cognitive function, and depression in elderly people.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The subjects of the present study were 28 elderly persons aged 65 years or older who visited S Elderly Welfare Center in P City from May to July of 2014. Led by 2 occupational therapists with more than 3 years of clinical experience, a combined art and craft, physical activity, and recreational activity program was performed 2 times weekly for 8 weeks (a total of 16 sessions), and ADL, cognitive function, and depression were measured before and after the program using assessment instruments. Before proceeding with this study, subjects were given written consent to the study. All details of this study’s procedures were submitted to the Science Research Council of Inje University, which approved the study protocol.

The program combining physical activity (5 sessions), recreational activity (6 sessions), and art and craft (5 sessions) was composed of a total of 16 sessions (Table 1). ADL was measured using the Functional Independent Measure (FIM). Developed in 1983 by Granger et al., the FIM is widely used to objectively assess ADL in disabled persons. The FIM, with 13 exercise function-related items and 5 cognitive function-related items, is an assessment tool for ADL including cognitive function; scores for each item range from 1 to 7 points, and the total score is a maximum of 126 points9). In order to screen the subjects with normal cognitive function in the present study, the Mini-Mental State Examination-Korean (MMSE-K) was used. The MMSE-K was standardized in Korean by Park and Kwon and originated from the MMSE (Mini-Mental State Examination) developed by Folstein and McHugh. This instrument consists of 12 items to measure the disorientation of time and place, memory registration, memory recall, attention, calculation, language skills, understanding, and judgment10). In the present study, the Beck Depression Inventory (BID) was used to measure depression. The BDI is a self-reported questionnaire with a total of 21 items designed to measure depressive symptoms involving emotional, cognitive, motivational, and physiological domains11)

Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 18. A paired t-test was used to compare before and after intervention, and the level of statistical significance was chosen as 0.05.

RESULTS

Subjects were 12 elderly men (42.8%) and 16 elderly women (57.2%). The mean ages of the elderly men and elderly women were 68.2 and 67.9 years old, respectively (Table 2). The results of the present study showed that ADL improved remarkably in both men and women after the intervention, cognitive function improved significantly, and depression levels decreased significantly (p<0.05). Depression levels decreased more, especially in women (Table 3).

aValues are mean ± SD, *Significant difference p<0.05, **Significant difference p<0.01

FIM: Functional Independent Measure; MMSE-K: Mini-Mental Status Examination-Korean Version; BDI: Beck Depression Scale

DISCUSSION

The present study aimed to determine the effects of a combined physical activity, recreational activity, and art and craft program as an intervention for improving ADL and cognitive function and decreasing depression in elderly people.

In the results of the present study, ADL in elderly men and women was found to significantly improve after the intervention. Decreased physical activity and deteriorated muscle strength and walking ability in elderly people are common characteristics of aging, and practicing physical activity and maintaining physical strength are widely known to have a great influence on maintaining ADL12). Decreased physical activity may lead to deteriorated physical strength, and, in turn, deteriorated physical strength may lead to decreased physical activity. For this reason, managing physical strength is very important for elderly people to maintain their independent living13). The physical and recreational activity used in the present study are activities in which one actively moves one’s own body and were considered to have good effects on improving physical strength in the elderly subjects. The results of the present study showed that cognitive function in both male and female subjects also improved significantly after the program was performed. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, helping to activate the brain. Recreational activity improves self-esteem and intimacy through enjoyable interactions with other people. Increased cerebral blood flow and pleasant feeling are widely known to have a positive impact on cognitive function14). The program used in the present study was intended to meet the educational needs of elderly people and, at the same time, improve their brain activity; it was not a program for simply arousing interest, and the effects of the program were very positive.

Looking at the effects of the intervention on depression found in the present study, depression was found to significantly decrease in both elderly men and women and was found to markedly decrease especially in women. Although depression in elderly people is the greatest influence on subjective wellbeing15) and entails negative emotions that can easily occur in elderly people, interventions for depression are feasible, and depression is thus an integral part of elderly care. Therefore, the results of the present study are significant in that the program used in the present study was effective in reducing depression. In particular, reduced depression in elderly women is thought to be closely associated with improved self-esteem through diverse and creative art and craft programs favored especially by women.

The results of the present study provided an opportunity to see that a combined physical activity, recreational activity, and art and craft program had positive effects on the health of elderly people and can be used as evidence for health management for the elderly in the current situation under which the elderly population is gradually growing. The present study has limitations. Because the subjects of the present study are limited to elderly people in a certain area, it is difficult to represent the entire elderly population. If future studies involving elderly people in wider regions are designed to conduct a long-lasting program rather than a one-time program, they are thought to be of greater help in improving the health of the elderly.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This work was supported by the research grant of Cheongju University in 2015.

REFERENCES

Kim JH: Study on the feelings of depression adaptation to society satisfaction with leisure and satisfaction with living basing on old persons’ participation traits in leisure. Chonnam: Chonnam University, 2013.
Kim JS: Research on the development of web interface for new silver generation in the perspective of user experience. Seoul: Ehwa University, 2010.
Kim DB, Son ES: A meta-analysis of the variables related to depression in elderly. J Kor Gerontol Soc, 2005, 25: 167–187.
Lee JW: The correlation between cognition, depression and leisure activity of elderly people. J Kor Health Serv Manage, 2014, 8: 65–73.
Yang YA: Senior occupational therapy. Seoul: Gyechuk, 2012.
Kang WG, Kang MH, Yang JL, et al. : The comparison of EEG activity by computer assisted cognitive rehabilitation program in the normal elderly and the elderly with dementia. J Kor Soc Occup Ther, 2009,17: 1–13.
Jung MS: Influence of memory intensive training program on cognitive function, memory performance, and self-esteem in elderly people. Kor Acad Soc Rehab Nurs, 2010, 13: 161–170.
Park SH, Park SU, Shin JI, et al. : The effects of craft activities on cognitive function in persons with cerebrovascular accident. Soc Occup Ther Aged Dement, 2009, 3: 55–61.
Granger CV, Cotter AC, Hamilton BB, et al. : Functional assessment scales: a study of persons with multiple sclerosis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 1990, 71: 870–875. [ PubMed ]
Park JH, Kwon YC: Standardization of Korean version of the mini-mental state examination (MMSE-K) for use in the elderly. J Kor Neuropsy Assoc, 1999, 28: 508–513.
Cho YA, Jeun WT, Yu JJ: Predictors of depression among North Korean defectors: a 3-year follow-up study. J Kor Counsel Psycho, 2005, 17: 467–484.
Bastone AC, Ferriolli E, Teixeira CP, et al. : Aerobic fitness and habitual physical activity in frail and nonfrail community dwelling elderly. J Phys Act Health, 2015, 12: 1304–1311. [ PubMed ]
Bibas L, Levi M, Bendayan M, et al. : Therapeutic interventions for frail elderly patients: part I. Published randomized trials. Prog Cardiovasc Dis, 2014, 57: 134–143. [ PubMed ]
Pfeffer RI, Kurosaki TT, Harrah CH, Jr, et al. : Measurement of functional activities in older adults in the community. J Gerontol, 1982, 37: 323–329. [ PubMed ]
Cho M, Kim D, Chung J, et al. : Effects of a cognitive-enhancement group training program on daily living activities, cognition, and depression in the demented elderly. J Phys Ther Sci, 2015, 27: 681–684.[ PMC free article ] [ PubMed ]

"UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE" OF DANCE BRINGS MOVEMENT THERAPY TO CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 19:09:46 GMT

FROM: SAINT CLOUD TIMES

ST. CLOUD — Brittni Cleland had no idea when she started teaching dance it would lead her to movement therapy.

But now, 11 years later, her heart is tethered to teaching dance to people with Parkinson's disease, depression and cancer. She said the population of those who benefit from dance movement therapy is limitless.

This week, she will serve the autism community in St. Cloud during her specialized class — Dance for All, Autism Movement Therapy at the Paramount Center for the Arts. Autism Movement Therapy is dancing specifically tailored to children with autism, to help them get out of their box in a social way.

"I’m a movement person myself," said Cleland. "I think it’s important for the individuals taking it to learn how to move their bodies and to just embrace who they are and being socially engaged."

Cleland said many children with autism don't have as many opportunities to be in a group setting and a social environment, so dance is an important way for them to break out of their shells with kids like them.

"Studies have found certain movements work the right and left sides of the brain," she said. Movement curated specially for children with autism draws on these specific movements. "Really it’s about maintaining that autonomy of the child and letting them be themselves however uniquely that is."

Cleland explained so many dance classes are rigidly structured, which can prove more difficult for children who have trouble focusing, like those with autism and even ADD or ADHD. Cleland's training in this movement therapy caters to those distractions and gives the kids the freedom they need right off the bat.

"I always tell parents, it's going to look like chaos at first," she said. "It does look like chaos on the outside, but it’s really just about letting these kids be free." And that freedom is giving them the space to grow and become more comfortable moving their bodies and being in a group setting.

"The purpose of it is to let them be themselves and embrace the movement, and whatever movement comes out of their body is okay, and to let them be empowered by it," said Cleland.

Cleland taught this same class at the Paramount last year. She's originally from Minnesota, but has bounced around much of the country for school and teaching. When the Paramount asked her to come back and teach again, she didn't have a second thought. "I believe in whatever you’re learning to bring back and give to the community that gave to you," she said.

She said in the past, she and those at Paramount had even done a class where dance was used to teach math — which may sound kind of crazy, but she said it really works. This autism dance class is no different.

UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE

"In order to retain information we need to embody it, and move it and use it," she said. Often, dance is an expressive form of healing — what Cleland called a "universal language."

"You don’t have to have words to communicate, you can use your body language," she said. "We forget about how much our movement and moving our body can do for us to communicate a message." Cleland's hope is that even when she leaves Central Minnesota for her next dance endeavor, this class can continue.

"I hope that someone from the town sees it and is inspired and wants to go out and get certified and start a class themselves," she said. "Repetition is key for (these kids) and consistency is key." She hopes someone will keep it going and create a class for those with autism to have once a week, the way it should be.

Dance for All really is open to all: children up to 17, parents, teachers or paraprofessionals. Anybody who could benefit from learning movement techniques with these children are welcome to attend.

The class started Monday and runs through Thursday. Classes are broken down by age group and are capped between eight to 10 people to keep it personal. More information and registration can be found on the Paramount's website under the Education & Outreach section here .

DANCE FOR ALL, AUTISM MOVEMENT THERAPY DANCE CLASS:

Open to all - children with autism, parents, teachers, etc.
Dates: Monday, June 18 - Thursday, June 21.
Classes broken into age groups: 4-6 years old, 7-11 years old, 12-17 years old.
Class start time respective to groups: 3:20-4:10 p.m., 1-1:50 p.m., 2:10-3 p.m.
Cost: $15
Classes capped between 8-10 students

LETS TALK BINGO!

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 19:12:34 GMT

TAKE OVER TUESDAY POST

BY: DEBBIE KUBIS

As a recreation therapist, I feel some people view Bingo as a diversional activity that serves little to no purpose. It has become an everyday part of my job to show folks that recreation therapist will not do things the traditional way! Yes, any person can do Bingo, but not every person will modify the activity the way a recreation therapist will to produce outcomes.

Advocating for recreation therapy and being able to show other professionals or treatment team members the benefit of an activity is definitely a BIG part of the job!

Here is an example of two of the ways I do Bingo! Feel free to share below the ways you have modified Bingo! You can make your own free bingo cards at myfreebingocards.com (I recommend laminating them so they last longer!).

RECREATION THERAPY BINGO!

I developed this board to promote discussion on how recreational activities can support mental health. When a person calls "BINGO", instead of coming to a prize we come to a discussion. Some discussion questions we go through as a group include:

Pick an activity on the BINGO board, and tell us about the last time you did it
Tell me about an activity that is helpful to you
What is one activity you would like to start doing again and why is that important to your mental health

PHILLY RECREATION BINGO!

I developed this board so group members can learn about resources in the area. The discussion questions for this version of BINGO support the connection between community recreation participation and health/wellness. Some of the discussion questions include:

Name one thing from the BINGO board that you used to enjoy doing that you no longer do
Share a time you did something listed on the BINGO board and talk about how that experience helped you feel good about yourself
Name on activity on the BINGO board that you would like resource for before you leave the hospital

ATRA LEGISLATIVE ALERT | MAY 22, 2018

Tue, 22 May 2018 19:15:21 GMT

ATRA members:

The Federal Public Policy is seeking feedback from you on the proposed rules for inpatient settings covered by Medicare. Please take a moment to serve as an advocate for recreational therapy and the people that we serve by reviewing the proposed rules for your practice setting:

LONG TERM ACUTE CARE HOSPITAL QUALITY REPORTING PROGRAM:

INPATIENT REHABILITATION QUALITY REPORTING PROGRAM:

Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) Prospective Payment System (PPS) Proposed Rule
Comments due by June 26, 2018
View the Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRF) Quality Reporting Program (QRP) webpage for more information.

SKILLED NURSING FACILITY QUALITY REPORTING PROGRAM:

FY 2019 SNF Prospective Payment System (PPS) Proposed Rule
Comments due by June 26, 2018
View the SNF QRP webpage for more information.

HOSPICE QUALITY REPORTING PROGRAM:

Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Hospice Wage Index and Payment Rate Update and Hospice Quality Reporting Requirements Proposed Rule
Comments due by June 26, 2018
View the Hospice QRP webpage for more information.

If you have suggestions, comments or recommendations, please send them to Dawn DeVries at devridaw@gvsu.edu with CMS Proposed Rule in the subject by June 10.

Your feedback will be included in ATRA’s written comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Thank you!

CONSORTIUM FOR CITIZENS WITH DISABILITIES

Fri, 18 May 2018 18:29:19 GMT

On 5/14/2018, ATRA signed on to the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities letter to House and Senate leaders supporting the Disability Integration Act (S. 910 and HR 2472). If passed, this would ensure the rights of people with disabilities to live full and independent lives within their communities by providing access to community services and removing institutional bias associated with federal programs like Medicare and Medicaid. This will reduce the segregation of people with disabilities into institutional settings in order to receive needed services.

CMS PROPOSED RULES

Fri, 18 May 2018 18:13:09 GMT

CMS Proposed Rules

We would love to have your comments and feedback on the 2019 CMS Proposed Rules for SNFs, Inpatient Rehab, Hospice, and Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities. To view the proposed rules in the Federal Register, copy and paste the appropriate link. Post your comments here or email them to devridaw@gvsu.edu .

To view the Fiscal Year 2019 proposed rules posted today at the Federal Register and a CMS fact sheet on each of the proposed rules, please visit the appropriate links.

Skilled Nursing Facility Prospective Payment System (SNF PPS) (CMS-1696-P), please visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2018-09015.pdf ; see the CMS SNF PPS Fact Sheet at: https://www.cms.gov/Newsroom/MediaReleaseDatabase/Fact-sheets/2018-Fact-sheets-items/2018-04-27-4.html

Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities Prospective Payment System (IRF PPS), (CMS-1688-P), please visit: https://www.cms.gov/Newsroom/MediaReleaseDatabase/Fact-sheets/2018-Fact-sheets-items/2018-04-27-3.html; see the CMS IRF PPS fact sheet at: https://www.cms.gov/Newsroom/MediaReleaseDatabase/Fact-sheets/2018-Fact-sheets-items/2018-04-27.html

Hospice Wage Index and Payment Rate Update, (CMS-1692-P), please visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2018-08773.pdf; see the CMS

Hospice Wage Index & Payment fact sheet at: https://www.cms.gov/Newsroom/MediaReleaseDatabase/Fact-sheets/2018-Fact-sheets-items/2018-04-27-3.html

Inpatient Psychiatric Facility Prospective Payment System (IPF PPS) (CMS-1690-P), please visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2018-09069.pdf; see the CMS IPF fact sheet at: https://www.cms.gov/Newsroom/MediaReleaseDatabase/Fact-sheets/2018-Fact-sheets-items/2018-04-27-2.html

RECREATIONAL THERAPY MONTH

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 20:24:18 GMT

Recreational Therapy, a term I formerly chuckled at. Now, I implement it. Recreational Therapy, a profession that is questioned by so many. As a student myself, receiving a Master’s Degree in Recreational Therapy, I am asked daily, “So… what exactly do you do?” With a sigh followed by a deep breath, I try to detain my anger and answer the question.

But, how do I answer it? At the beginning of my educational career, I did what most people do, use Google. However, what you will find when ‘Googling’ Recreational Therapy, are various definitions – ranging from “a career that plays with children” to “working with people with disabilities”. However, if you are a profession in the field, you understand that it’s much more than that. This month, in honor of it being Recreational Therapy month, I wanted to highlight much more than what Recreational Therapy is. I wanted to discuss a more reflective question, “Why does Recreational Therapy matter?” I could do this in several ways. I could list reasons why the profession exists or I could suggest watching a video. Instead, you will get a sense of what Recreational Therapy is and why individuals are studying RT through the eyes, ears, and words of the students themselves. To supplement the students’ responses and experiences, I also had the opportunity to interview two seasoned professionals in the field. The responses vary from student to student and from each of the professionals. Thus, making it interesting to read, and just maybe with the help of you readers, we all can find a common definition and purpose of Recreational Therapy.

Within my interviews I asked questions such as ‘What does Recreational Therapy mean to you? How has it impacted your life? How has it impacted the life of others?” Each response is anonymous and each response is unique. Check it out below!

“For me, Recreation Therapy is an instrumental part of who I am. It’s how I connect with the world and how I make a difference in it. Recreational Therapy allows me to connect with a wide population of people at an individual level, which I find to be a key factor in promoting growth. This connection and growth spreads to those I serve, not only increasing their quality of life, but enhancing the lives of whom they share their life with as well.” – Student, ’17

“TR has completely shaped who I am today. I truly believe this is what I was born to do. I have had the privilege of not only practicing in the field for 17 years, but also sharing my experiences with RT students who are just as excited as I am about the positive impact RT has on a variety of people from all walks of life. Most of my experience is working with the elderly in long term care, a population I unexpectedly fell in love with after my student internship experience. Everyone has a story to tell. I love how RT helps residents with dementia tell that story and find a sense of peace despite the grief and feelings of isolation that comes with losing one’s memories. It is so important to be heard, and understood, no matter your age or ability. RT facilitates that voice through personalized interventions.” – Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

“Studying Therapeutic Recreation has made an impact on my life which in turn allows me to make an impact on others. Allowing people to focus on their abilities in a world that is so caught up in judging people on their differences is something that TR specialists really embrace. Volunteering in a community setting has allowed me to understand how much Therapeutic Recreation is needed and how creating simple programs can make a huge impact. Seeing the smiling faces as the bowling ball rolls down the lane and crashes down the pins then the laughter breaks is what Therapeutic Recreation is all about.” – Student, ’16

“Therapeutic Recreation means a lot to me because it has showed me a whole other side of the ‘therapy’ spectrum that I didn't know existed in the medical and recreation field. For someone who wants to work in a retirement home or skilled nursing facility, the major and field I have entered into is extremely rewarding. Recreational Therapy has a lot to offer with a wide range of job opportunities. TR specialists are making a difference in the everyday life of people - whether it is an elder or even a teenager. That's why this field means so much to me.

My personal story of falling in love with the field of Therapeutic Recreation begins when I was fifteen. I was a server in a dining room of a nearby independent-living retirement home. The CTRS coordinator of the facility was always so engaging with the residents. However, I also would see how sometimes the residents would be left in rooms and never taken anywhere off the campus of the retirement home. Ever since that day I researched anything and everything about this field and decided to pursue it my senior year of college. I am proud and excited to say that in May I will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in this field. I firmly believe if I never received that first job at the retirement home, I don't think I would have known what Recreational Therapy was. I’m beyond thankful I do know what it is and that I now have the tools and knowledge to share its definition and purpose with other students.”

– Student, ’17

“I was attending the University of New Hampshire pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management and Policy. I’ve always been passionate about recreation (any type of activity, sport, or game that you enjoy doing in your spare time) and it has always played a major role in my life. I took an Intro to Therapeutic Recreation elective course that changed my life and broadened my view on the world of recreation. This course helped paved the way for my future because it was in that class that I knew what I wanted to do for a career. After graduating, I furthered my education receiving my master’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation.

I currently work for the Springfield Parks & Recreation Department as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist where I get the pleasure of creating and providing opportunities for individuals to be independent, creative, socialize, have fun and expressive. I enjoy helping people reach their goals, challenging their skills, being encouraging and supportive. I have met some amazing people and people who have truly touched my life. My life has been greatly impacted and forever changed by Recreational Therapy. I am more understanding, accommodating, patient, and accepting. This is one of the best gifts I could ask for.

One of my favorite memories was when I was working at a residential traumatic brain injury (TBI) facility. One of the participants I was working with was a young man who was in an accident causing TBI and loss of mobility in his legs. We were discussing his goals and he felt like because of his injury he couldn’t do anything. He lost a lot of interest in activities so I was determined to find something to bring some joy into his life. I found an adapted water ski program. When I brought up the idea to him, he immediately shut it down saying that he wouldn’t be able to do it. After discussing it more, I showed him some videos online and the look on his face was priceless. It was like he was introduced to a whole new world that he knew nothing about. He looked at me with a smile on his face saying “wow I could do that”. The day of the event was amazing and extremely fulfilling for not only him but me as well. When his turn came he got super nervous and almost backed out but with encouragement from me and the staff working there giving him confidence, he proceeded. I was on the back of the boat while they pulled him and he was ear to ear smiles the entire time. Then the boat went over a small wake and when he came down from the bump, the entire adaptation ski broke and he fell into the water. When he got on the boat, everyone was talking about how awesome it looked, how he caught air and how that’s never happened before. He continued talking about this experience for months and finally wanted to try new things. I was so thankful to have this experience with him. These types of experiences that create change and happiness are the experiences I live for. That is, Recreational Therapy.” – Recreational Therapist

“TR is powerful, and to me, it is all about providing individuals with the opportunity to explore parts of life that he or she may not have felt capable or comfortable doing before.

Last summer, I was an intern on a short-term behavioral health unit. The experience was amazing! Every day, I had the chance to interact and work with new patients to make a positive impact on their life. I was able to implement multiple therapies and activities throughout the day. Some days, clients would refuse to participate in activities with me, but other days, they were enjoying every minute of it. By the end of their stay, the change in the patient was visible and it was clear how much they learned from our recreation program. Without our department, these patients might not have known about these specific outlets or techniques used.

I believe our field has the potential to grow, as long as there are still prospective students entering the field at all levels (bachelors, masters, and doctoral). As therapeutic recreation specialists, we have to continue to educate our coworkers, clientele, and members of society about TR and the benefits that we provide in order to keep the field flourishing. I also think that we need to create more research in order to help our field stay alive. Without providing evidence that we make a difference in our clients lives, our field will not be considered mandatory for individual’s care.” – Student, ‘17

I hope you have enjoyed reading the different perspectives that students and professionals bring to the field of Recreational Therapy. It’s important to never forget that we too, have a voice in Recreational Therapy. Make a difference and BE the difference.

CALL FOR NEW STUDENT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 20:26:01 GMT

The ATRA Student Development Committee (SDC) is a growing committee comprised of students and professionals who are tasked with encouraging student membership and engagement in ATRA (ATRA, 2017). The committee has some exciting plans for 2018 and are looking for new members who are enthusiastic and dedicated in helping grow student membership and engagement in ATRA!

The SDC shares many great resources such as evidence based practice research articles, job and internship listings, network opportunities and much more! Besides recruiting students to become and stay engaged in ATRA, the goal for this year is to plan and coordinate activities at the Annual Conference for students. For example, the committee envisions NEW ways for students and professionals to meet and network about a variety of topics through unique and fun ways; speed mentoring anyone!? We will also be hosting an internship social, and other networking opportunities. Students are the future, and it is vital that we as a profession continue to engage and connect students with resources and other students, organizations and professionals and we need you! If you are interested in joining, see below for a brief overview of the basic responsibilities/requirements. Send an email to Students@atra-online.com to join or obtain more information.

Must be a current ATRA member (reduced rate for students!) Take a look at reasons to join ATRA at https://www.atra-online.com/students
Make at minimum two meaningful posts per month to the ATRA Students! Facebook page
Submit one blog post to the ATRA webpage
Serve on a conference sub-committee within the SDC
Recruit more student followers/ATRA members.

Haven’t made up your mind yet? Follow the ATRA Students Facebook page and check out what students and professionals from around the world are up too.

CARTE’S FIRST PROGRAM TO COMPLETE RE-ACCREDITATION

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 20:29:41 GMT

Taylor Hooker, CTRS, CARTE Secretary
Comments from: Jennifer Hinton, Ph.D. WCU Recreational Therapy

The Committee on Accreditation of Recreational Therapy Education (CARTE) is beginning a tradition where we highlight Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredited RT programs via CARTE standards in the ATRA newsletter. Our intent is to capture the thoughts of those at the program related to the process of accreditation and the impact it has had on their programs. We plan to highlight the great work that these programs are achieving in promoting RT and preparing future generations of Recreational Therapists. The very first CAAHEP/CARTE accredited program, and therefore the first program to complete the reaccreditation process is Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina. Below, Dr. Jennifer Hinton, Associate Professor and Program Director of the Recreational Therapy program, highlights their experiences with the accreditation process and communicates the strides WCU has been making over the years.

“The Recreational Therapy Program at Western Carolina University is situated within the School of Health Sciences. The School of Health Sciences also houses six other Programs including Athletic Training, Nutrition and Dietetics, Emergency Medical Care (also a CAAHEP accredited program), a Dietetic Internship Program (master’s level), Environmental Health Sciences, and a Masters in Health Sciences. Health Sciences is the largest School in the College of Health and Human Sciences, which also has a Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, a School of Nursing, a Department of Physical Therapy, and a Department of Social Work. Just a few years ago, we moved in to a fantastic new facility wherein different faculty and staff in the health professions can better collaborate with teaching, service, and learning opportunities.

This year has been a year of exceptional transition for WCU RT. Two of our long-time faculty members, Dr. Peg Connolly and Mr. Glenn Kastrinos, retired from the University. We have been exceptionally fortunate to have wonderful new faculty in place. We completed our re-accreditation in the spring of 2016, and the fall of 2016 has been a fresh new start in our classrooms and hallways as we continue to strive for excellence.

Accreditation is an expectation in our College; striving to exceed accreditation mandates and provide exceptional education is a consistent process. There are 11 accrediting bodies that review the work of our faculty and Programs. In any given year, there are self-studies, reports, and improvements being made due to our rigorous accreditation processes across the many Programs, Schools, and Departments. Recreational Therapy, then, continues to work toward excellence alongside our colleagues in healthcare. It’s a process that has continued to challenge us to improve yearly on our curriculum and Program offerings.

As we are nestled in the Western North Carolina mountains, our rural geography provides some benefits and some challenges. Unlike urban universities, we have a difficult time finding licensed recreational therapists for field experiences. To overcome this, we have developed service learning opportunities that are academically linked to our classes and supervised by credentialed RT faculty and clinical staff. Currently, we have two courses that are service learning designated: RT for Older Adults and Adventure-Based RT. This number is expected to grow as we have new faculty eager to expand these offerings. The Adventure-Based RT class just won a STAR Engagement Award from the University. It is a reflection of one of the benefits of our locale; we have the opportunity to use the outdoors as our classroom consistently, locally, and in a variety of beneficial ways.

Re-accreditation was a positive process for us. As Dr. Connolly and I worked on our self-study, we identified strengths and weaknesses that we surely would not have pinpointed had we been going through day-to-day educational tasks. Dr. Connolly set up advanced measurement systems for us to capture data. That data has helped us to track our majors and outcomes in ways that we had been previously lacking. Many times, when we are called on by our institution to provide data, we can provide answers readily based on the systems we’ve put in place for our accreditation and re-accreditation processes.

Since I have noted the new faculty, we will also be using our CARTE self-study and re-accreditation comments to guide our strategic planning processes. Our CARTE reviewer, Dr. Teresa Beck, provided us with great insight into potential avenues for growth and sustainability. In January, we will start working on a departmental strategic plan for the next five years. Our CARTE guidelines will be the foundation for those discussions, as we continue to strive to be leaders in RT education.”

Continue following our updates on schools and important CARTE information in the next ATRA newsletter where we will feature yet another leading program! To find more information on the Western Carolina University program, check out the Recreational Therapy program page.

To find out more about the work of CARTE and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), click here.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2017 AWARD WINNERS!

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 20:31:37 GMT

The ATRA Awards Committee, lead by Matt Frye, worked very hard to put together an exceptional group of awardees for ATRA’s 2017 Annual awards. ATRA regrets that our members were not able to be recognized at this year’s Annual Conference. It is with great honor that we announce this year’s award recipients:

THE ATRA INDIVIDUAL CITATION DESCRIPTION

This citation may be made annually to one non-member of ATRA. Nominees must meet two or more of the following qualifications:

Preparing/sponsoring legislation
Supporting and promoting recreational therapy
Serving as a volunteer in recreational therapy
Professional research, writing, and/or presentation(s)

THE ATRA INDIVIDUAL CITATION RECEPIENT(S)

Representative G. K. Butterfield and G.T. Thompson

For their continued support of recreational therapy by sponsoring House of Representatives’ bill, HR 626, the Inpatient Rehabilitation Act of 2017. Representatives Butterfield’s and Thompson’s efforts are appreciated as they co-sponsored HR 1906 in 2015, and reintroduced the bill as HR 626 in 2017. Representatives Butterfield and Thompson continue to help ATRA’s efforts to have recreational therapy recognized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, as a medically necessary treatment modality within inpatient rehabilitation settings when deemed appropriate by a physician.

THE ATRA ORGANIZATIONAL CITATION DESCRIPTION

This citation is defined as any group who advocates, promotes and/or supports the delivery of services to persons with disabilities. This includes any public, private, or voluntary group organized under a charter, permit, certificate, or incorporation.

THE ATRA ORGANIZATIONAL CITATION RECIPIENT

Camp Aranzazu

Camp Aranzazu is a summer camp located on 104 acres in Rockport, Texas, serving children and adults with various special needs. The camp is a 501(c)3, not for profit that integrates therapeutic recreation programs into their camp where they serve children and adults with chronic illnesses and special needs. It is accredited by the American Camp Association. Last year, the organization completed an $11 million fundraising campaign to increase the number of beds, to add programs and improve the camp’s waterfront area.

The camp served over 20,000 campers since they began in 2006. Special camps are held throughout the summer for individuals with various disabilities, such as heart week or asthma week. One unique aspect of Camp Aranzazu is their focus on “intentional camping”, a philosophy integrated into their practice that includes purposeful design of the camp experience individualized for each camper and their specific needs. Elements of this philosophy include: environmental appreciation, spiritual awareness, team building and sports, art and social experiences.

The camp employees at least three CTRSs in key leadership positions. The CTRSs on staff conduct assessments, develop goals and treatment plans, and evaluate campers’ progress. They also provide outstanding internship and fieldwork level placements for therapeutic recreation students, supporting the development and growth of young professionals and enriching the lives of those served.

THE ATRA SCHOLARLY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD DESCRIPTION

This is awarded to one member of ATRA who has contributed significantly to the field of knowledge of recreational therapy.

THE ATRA SCHOLARLY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT

Jasmine Townsend
Jasmine is an assistant professor at Clemson University. Her research commonly works hand- in-hand with non-profit organizations who provide therapeutic recreation services to veterans and their family and other social supporters. Her research helps to understand the individual and family-level health benefits of recreation and therapeutic recreation, which helps provide RT practitioners with the evidence they need to inform and justify their services.

Her most recent and notable work in this area has been with the R4 Alliance, an alliance of non-
profit organizations who provide recreation, therapeutic recreation, and other supportive services for veterans. In addition to her research, she has also been an advocate and
programmer for adapted sports and inclusive recreation programs.

THE ATRA CHAPTER AFFILIATE AWARD DESCRIPTION

This award is given to the outstanding chapter affiliate of ATRA who has made significant contributions to the profession of recreational therapy.

THE ATRA CHAPTER AFFILIATE AWARD RECIPIENT

Arizona State Therapeutic Recreation Association

ASTRA held their annual conference last year with the largest attendance in the history of the chapter. They renewed their partnership with the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association and have enhanced the chapter’s ability to educate professionals outside of recreational therapy.

The chapter continues to encourage and make the annual conference accessible and affordable to students. ASTRA continued to demonstrate increased promotion and awareness of recreational therapy and professional development through improved social media presence, with their quarterly newsletter, and other methods of communication, education, and outreach. ASTRA’s dynamic, enthusiastic, motivated board which will continue bring even more positive influence and support to the Therapeutic Recreation community.

THE ATRA EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD DESCRIPTION

This awarded is given to a clinical agency or institution of higher education that has distinguished itself through outstanding contribution(s) to the recreational therapy profession.

THE ATRA EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD RECIPIENT

University of New Hampshire

UNH’s curriculum does an incredible job of preparing students to work in a variety of professional settings, and due to affiliations with community organizations, every student who comes out of UNH’s Therapeutic Recreation program has an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with older adults, children, and adults with brain injury or intellectual / developmental disabilities. For those with a stronger interest in physical disability or veteran populations, UNH has a unique program in Northeast Passage as part of the department.

Every student in the therapeutic recreation program must complete a 45-hour practicum experience, 100 -150 hours of program leadership and treatment in the Junior TR labs, and a minimum 560-hour internship before graduating. This hands-on learning, is the core of UNH.The UNH curriculum is well-rounded. With faculty a mix of tenured and tenure-track faculty as well as clinical faculty who really help to translate concepts into practice.

UNH is one of only six universities to earn CARTE Accreditation since its inception. This accreditation represents a commitment to undergraduate education that is reflected in the department’s high rates of NCTRC certification, job placement, and overall satisfaction with student preparation on the part of internship supervisors and employers.

In addition to a very strong undergraduate program, UNH offers a Master’s Degree in

Therapeutic Recreation Administration. TheM.S. program provides graduate students with a strong foundation in how to conduct research while developing students’ skill sets related to the provision of RT services in a community setting.

THE ATRA FRANK BASILE CLINICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD DESCRIPTION

This award recognizes the recipient’s outstanding contribution to recreational therapy through creative and innovative programming in a clinical setting through promotion of the profession and service to developing professionals.

THE ATRA FRANK BASILE CLINICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENT

Abby Pestak

Abby has made an outstanding contribution to recreation therapy through creative and innovative programming in a clinical setting. She has diligently promoted the profession. In addition she has provided great service as the committee Chair of the Child and Adolescent Section and Chair of the Peg Connolly Scholarship Committee.

Abby is an extremely committed clinician who has impacted the field of pediatric behavioral health practice as a recreational therapist. Abby obtained certifications in Child Light Yoga and has implemented yoga in her practice. Abby is the type of clinician who is continually growing professionally and wants to improve her practice. She has updated her assessment process while advocating for recreational therapy to be represented during the change over to electronic medical records. Abby never stops adding new interventions and adapting to what her patients needs at the particular time.

Abby is a fantastic role model and teacher for Therapeutic Recreation students. As an internship supervisor, she sees her role as developing the intern. She has high standards and always treats the students with fairness and kindness.

THE ATRA OUTSTANDING PROFESSIONAL AWARD DESCRIPTION

This award given to one member of ATRA for outstanding contributions to the ATRA such as preparing or sponsoring legislation, professional research, writing or presentation, exceptional committee work and supporting advancement and promotion of the profession.

THE ATRA OUTSTANDING PROFESSIONAL AWARD RECIPIENT

Thomas Skalko

Dr. Thom Skalko is well known within the recreational therapy profession. He has served ATRA as President, and has been chair/co-chair of the ATRA Federal Public Policy committee for ten plus years. Dr. Skalko is currently serving his second term as the President of CAAHEP, a significant achievement for any healthcare professional and one of great importance in the recognition of recreational therapy at the national level. As ATRA Public Policy chair, Dr. Skalko has led recent initiatives, particularly HR 1906, to achieve the recognition of recreational therapy within inpatient rehabilitation settings by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. He has dedicated hours or service in meeting with legislators in Washington DC, and representing ATRA to multiple coalitions and disability organizations.

THE ATRA DISTINGUISHED FELLOW AWARD DESCRIPTION

This is the highest recognition award given by ATRA. The award recognizes exceptional accomplishments within the field of recreational therapy.

THE ATRA DISTINGUISHED FELLOW AWARD RECIPIENT

Missy Armstrong

Missy began her work as a recreation therapist 40 years ago. Throughout this time she has served the profession and has been promoted to management and administrative positions at Harborview Medical Center. Missy has been a member of ATRA since 1988. She has been actively involved at all levels of the organization through committee work, leadership appointments, and elected offices. Missy has demonstrated the same dedication on the state level, as a member of the Washington Therapeutic Recreation Association. Missy is highly respected in her state and remains as a primary contact in the state of Washington regarding therapeutic recreation concerns.

Missy’s service and leadership is endless. She has tirelessly been engaged in important conversations about therapeutic recreation, involved in conferences, served on committees and task force appointments. She has also served as co-chaired of the Joint Task Force on Credentialing, worked on the State Recognition Sub-Committee for Title Recognition and was a member of the Public Policy Committee for many years.

Missy has served as Secretary, President Elect and President for the ATRA Board of Directors, guiding the organization through some difficult times. Missy’s body of work in research, publications and presentations is also very note-worthy. She has published “A Community Integration Program”, “State Recognition Options in Therapeutic Recreation: An Educational Resource” What is sometimes overlooked but important to recognized is Missy’s contribution in writing written plans operations, policies and procedures, strategic plans, training manuals, job descriptions, accreditation reports, and risk management plans. Missy’s scholarship for Harborview Medical Center is used as a template across the country for other organizations, in their PT, OT and RT Departments.

Missy’s contribution as a speaker is also well represented. It is quite often you will Missy speaking at an ATRA conference and her expertise in management, credentialing, and rehabilitation has made her a sought out speaker across the country. Above all these incredible contributions, Missy’s most admired attributes is her ability to listen, respect differences, and demonstrating professional integrity in her words and actions.

SNF Final Rule

Fri, 01 Sep 2017 20:37:17 GMT

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August 2017 Health Policy Update Memo

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 20:40:44 GMT

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H.R. 620

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 20:38:24 GMT

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CPR CMS IFR 2018 Proposed Rule

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 20:56:24 GMT

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ATRA Senate Health Care Bill Memo BCRA

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 20:58:43 GMT

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CPR Comments on SNF 2018

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 20:57:44 GMT

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ATRA Comments to SNF Proposed Rule

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 20:53:37 GMT

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ATRA Comments to IRF Proposed Rule

Sun, 25 Jun 2017 20:54:35 GMT

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EXCITING NEWS FROM THE STANDARDS OF PRACTICE COMMITTEE

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:30:29 GMT

The SOP committee remains focused on making the standards applicable to all settings. Two main goals for the committee at this time are the development of an educator’s tool, and the recruitment of more committee members from various practice settings.

Educator’s Project: The SOP Committee recognizes the need to make it easier to include the standards of practice in RT curriculum. For more than six months, the Educator’s project has been the main focus of our efforts. Ultimately this will translate into practice, as more and more Recreational Therapists will become comfortable implementing the standards, therefore improving the quality of care provided to our clients/participants. In order to fully develop this tool, we need input from current and past educators. Join the SOP committee this September at the Annual ATRA conference in Orlando, Florida, and be a part of this important project.

Call to join the ATRA SOP Committee: The Standards of Practice Committee is seeking committee members from all practice areas. It is vital to the success of the committee, and the profession, that the needs of all Recreational Therapists are represented in this committee. We also encourage students to join the committee, as the best way to learn is to practice. Responsibilities would include attending/presenting at the annual ATRA conference, and eventually presenting at local and regional conferences. Support and education will be provided by committee members to increase your comfort in this role.

Skilled Nursing Facility Proposed Rule

Thu, 04 May 2017 20:49:37 GMT

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Inpatient Rehabilitation Proposed Rule

Wed, 03 May 2017 20:51:45 GMT

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HAB Letter regarding 2017 EHP Benchmark Plans

Wed, 01 Feb 2017 21:48:10 GMT

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Recent ACA Developments

Wed, 25 Jan 2017 21:43:23 GMT

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CDC Response to DRRC Banned Words Letter

Thu, 05 Jan 2017 21:30:54 GMT

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Accessing Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act of 2015 (Talking Points)

Fri, 01 Jan 2016 22:09:42 GMT

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CPR Comments to CMS on LTC Facilities

Wed, 14 Oct 2015 21:00:43 GMT

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CPR Letter to Congresson PAC Reform: Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation Support for SGP Fix with Reasonable Reforms to Post-Acute Care

Mon, 16 Mar 2015 21:02:24 GMT

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Proposed Rule: Summary of Benefits and Coverage and Uniform Glossary

Thu, 26 Feb 2015 22:06:52 GMT

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ITEM Coalition Support for Disposable Medical Technology

Fri, 13 Feb 2015 22:08:16 GMT

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CCD Letter to President Obama RE: Employer-Based Wellness Programs

Thu, 12 Feb 2015 22:05:09 GMT

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Affordable Health Care Act -- Open Enrollment Flyer

Sat, 15 Nov 2014 22:15:17 GMT

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Summary of MedPAC Public Meeting On Site - Neutral Payments (11/07/14)

Thu, 13 Nov 2014 22:16:56 GMT

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CPR Opposes MedPAC's Site-Neutral Payment Recommendations

Thu, 13 Nov 2014 22:03:59 GMT

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2014 Election Overview and Implications presented by Powers Legislative Practice Group

Wed, 05 Nov 2014 22:13:42 GMT

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Medicare DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Improvement Act of 2014/HR 4920 (ATRA sign-on with ITEM Coalition)

Wed, 08 Oct 2014 21:12:18 GMT

atra

ATRA signs onto the CCD Transportation Task Force Final comments to the Temporary Exemption from Various Requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for an Automated Driving System

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto on to the CCD, DAC , and allies' response to the request for information on the administration's "CRUSH" initiative

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD DD, Autism support letter FY2027 Appropriations for Critical Programs for People with Disabilities and Families

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD DD, Autism, Family Support Task Force FY27 Approps Sign-On Letter

Read the support letter HERE !

Response to CCD Letter on "Special Needs" that ATRA signed onto in October 2025

Read the response letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD Letter to House and CCD Letter to Senate FY2027 for increased funding for the U.S. Access Board

Read the support letter to the House HERE !

Read the support letter to the Senate HERE!

ATRA signs onto CCD Letter to Senate FY2027 for the Assistive Technology (AT) Programs

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD Letter to House FY2027 for the Assistive Technology (AT) Programs

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR/HAB Coalition Comments re HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027 Proposed Rule

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Collaboration to Promote Self-Determination (CPSD) letter to preserve and protect the U.S. Department of Education

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Long-Term Supports & Services Task Force of CCD letter to CMS regarding implementation of the new HCBS waiver authorized by HR 1

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto ITEM Coalition Support for S. 3138, the Veterans SPORT Act

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto ITEM Coalition Support for H.R. 6835, the Veterans STAND Act

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation Support for H.R. 5940/S. 3480, the Seniors Deserve SMARTER Care Act

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR Letter in Support of Passage of the Senate FY 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR Letter in Support of Reinstating CARF's Vital Services within the VA

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CCD Response Letter to the Reintroduction of the 21st Century Dyslexia Act

Read the letter HERE !

ATRA signs onto CPR support letter for S. 2898, the Dennis Benigno Traumatic Brain Injury Program Reauthorization Act of 2025

Read the s upport letter HERE !

ATRA supports CCD Statement on Transfer of Education Dept programs to Other Agencies

Read the st atement HERE !

ATRA signs on to letter to The Department of Education Condemned for Ending Support for Students with Disabilities

ATRA signs onto Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition Funding Concerns letter

ATRA signs onto Disability & Aging Collaborative and CCD Support Letter re: Community Engagement Requirements

ATRA signs onto CCD Education Task Force support letter The Use of the Phrase “Special Needs” in Official U.S. Department of Education Communications

ATRA signs onto CCD Education Task Force support letter for The Importance of State Assessments and Strong Accountability for Students with Disabilities

ATRA signs onto Disability and Aging Collaborative (DAC) of the CCD support letter for Protecting Healthcare and Lowering Costs Act of 2025

ATRA signs onto CPR Comments in Response to the Contract Year 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule

ATRA signs onto DAC/CCD LTSS Comment Submitted on Application of FLSA to Home Care Workers

ATRA signs onto CPR letter of concern to CMS regarding the Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction (“WISeR”) Model

ATRA signs onto CCD letter on ED-AI Priority

Read the support letter HERE !

ATRA Signs onto Final CCD Tech Task Force Letters on FY2026 AT Act Funding

Read the letter to the House HERE !

Read the letter to the Senate HERE !

ATRA Signs onto CCD letter with update to FY 2026 appropriations

July Blog! The Often-Unrecognized Engine of Health Equity

ATRA Signs onto CPR Letter of Support for the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act

ATRA Signs onto CCD DD, Autism, FS Task Force Letter for Full Funding of the UCEDDs in FY26

ATRA Signs onto CCD DD, Autism, FS Task Force Letter for Full Funding of the UCEDDs in FY26

ATRA Signs onto Joint CPR and HAB Coalition Response to Medicaid Cuts in Senate Finance Committee Budget

ATRA Signs onto CCD Education Task Force comments letter on ED Secretary priorities 2025

ATRA Signs onto the Final Senate Budget Reconciliation Letter

ATRA Signs onto the National Respite Coalition Final Letter to the Hill for FY 2026 Lifespan Respite and NFCSP funding

ATRA Signs onto the DRRC Support Letter for Disability/Rehabilitation Research at NIH/NCMRR in FY 2026

ATRA Advocacy Call to Action:DOE Direct Rule on Accessibility

Read the Call to Action HERE !

ATRA Signs onto the Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation (CPR) comments re: Medicare Program; Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System for Fiscal Year 2026 and Updates

June Blog! From Leisure to Legacy: The Deeper Purpose of Recreational Therapy

ATRA Signs onto Disability Organizations Request for Funding for NIDILRR in FY 2026 Budget

ATRA Signs onto DAC and CCD support letter outlining concerns on the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” because of harmful cuts and changes to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA)

ATRA Signs onto support letters for H.R. 2199/S. 1173, the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act

ATRA Signs onto the Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation (CPR) Welcome Letter and Meeting Request to Discuss the Value of Rehabilitation Therapy Services Education Task Force (FY) 2026

ATRA in Action: April 2025 Advocacy & Legislative Update

Read the Update HERE !

ATRA Initiates support letter to US Secretary of Health & Human Services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Read the full support letter HERE !

May Blog! The Quiet Genius of Microadventure in Recreational Therapy

ATRA Signs onto the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Education Task Force (FY) 2026 Labor, HHS, Education, and Related Services appropriations bill letter

ATRA Signs onto letter of support for the continued implementation of the HCBS settings rule

Read the full support letter HERE !