WEESIE'S WORLD

GOODBYE, 2020!!

Written by: WEESIE WALKER, ATP/SMS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NRRTS

The year 2020 has challenged us all in many ways. The beginningwas normal and productive with participation at conferencesand ISS. Then came March. We had no idea what was ahead.Quarantines, personal protective equipment, lockdown and no toiletpaper. We had to learn new ways of providing services. We sawlayoffs and furloughs. We never gave up because we had to adapt.That is what Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) suppliers do best!Now we know that we are up for any challenge.

In 2020, NRRTS produced high-quality CEU webinars and CEUarticles. The increase in attendance proves there is value in ourcontinuing education.

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Course 1 of the CRT Supplier Program is now complete. This courseis now available to all as an introduction to the role of the CRTsupplier. This is the first program that sets the minimum standard forCRT suppliers. This pathway will offer a standardized approach to

the role and profession. Without the dedication of our SMEs, none of this would be possible. Thank you Jean Minkel, Susan Johnson-Taylor, Anne Kieschnik and Michele Gunn for your guidance and vision!

WELCOME TO CANADA!!

A couple of years ago, I received a call from Jason Kelln, a CRT supplier in Saskatchewan, Canada. He was interested in becoming a NRRTS Registrant. We talked several times about the differences in Canadian service delivery as compared to the United States. We came to the realization that the differences were far less than the similarities. And most importantly, there is a need for a Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics for suppliers.

Kelln presented at the 2019 Canadian Seating and Mobility Conference regarding NRRTS and RESNA Certification. This became the beginning of a collaboration with Canadian Assistive Device Association (CADA). Working with a dedicated group of CRT stakeholders, a Canadian Advisory Committee was formed to ensure that Canadian Registrants have access to relevant educational content.

It is a huge compliment that Canadian stakeholdersrecognize the value and benefits of the Registry.

We are looking forward to 2021!!!

Weesie may be reached at WWALKER@NRRTS.ORG

Weesie Walker, ATP/SMS, is the executive director of NRRTS. She has more than 25 years of experience as a Complex Rehab Technology supplier. She has served on the NRRTS and GAMES board of directors and the Professional Standards Board of RESNA. Throughout her career, Walker has worked to advocate for professional suppliers and the consumers they serve. She has presented at the Canadian Seating Symposium, RESNA Conference, AOTA Conference, Medtrade, ISS and the NSM Symposium. Walker is a NRRTS Fellow.