2 minute read
WEESIE'S WORLD
NRRTS CONTINUING EDUCATION
Written by: WEESIE WALKER, ATP/SMS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NRRTS
Back in the early days of NRRTS, a group of concerned stakeholders created an organization that would provide a professional identity for individuals providing seating and mobility. To be eligible for inclusion in the Registry, the applicant had to get recommendation letters from three clinicians. The applicant had to show work experience via employer verification. In 1992, there was no other way to determine who was qualified to be a Registrant.
The application process evolved as Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) became a recognized specialty. Some education was available at the few conferences focused on seating and mobility. Companies were formed that only provided CRT. The ATS/ATP certification was introduced by RESNA. New and exciting wheelchair technology and seating products became available. Some manufacturers required suppliers to attend training to provide their products. Getting education involved travel and expense.
NRRTS saw a need to change the application process. No longer requiring the three recommendations, an applicant must have 10 hours of CEU education specific to CRT. Theneed for high quality education became more and more apparent. The first NRRTS education created were called “teleseminars.” Attendees would call in and listen to the presentation. It was accessible education, but, again, the attendees were in “listen only mode” without video.
It was a wonderful day in continuing education when NRRTS rolledout the webinar platform. Now, attendees were seeing a powerpoint as they listened to the presenter. Today, the webinars are much more interactive and engaging. Even in the recorded format, the presentations are an effective means for learning.
DIRECTIONS, NRRTS bi-monthly publication, has always offered great content related to CRT. Each article provides insight through the eyes of CRT consumers, manufacturers, clinicians and suppliers. This publication is considered a “defacto” journal for CRT. In 2018, CEU articles were added as another method of providing quality education. CEU articles can be accessed online.
Access to CRT education has never been easier. The choices ofcontent are diverse. What a benefit to be able go into the course library and choose the topic that is most relevant to the learner.
If you have not taken advantage of NRRTS Continuing Education, you are missing out!
CONTACT THE AUTHOR
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 CRT Supplier. She has served on the board of directors for NRRTS and GAMES and RESNA’s professional standards board. 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.
