CECOPS and BHTA join forces to shape the future of assistive technology services with 2020 conference
Aiming to raise the standard of all assistive technology related services across the UK, industry standards body CECOPS is working in association with the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) to deliver its first assistive technology conference in June 2020.
Having developed frameworks for the procurement and provision of various assistive technology services, including community equipment, wheelchair and seating services, telecare, telehealth and communication aids, CECOPS currently works with approximately 200 AT services across the UK.
Now the independent certification and standards body is aiming to bring together professionals from across all sectors including policy leads, commissioners, service providers, clinical and technical staff, innovators and industry to help shape the future of assistive technology services.
Brian Donnelly, CEO of CECOPS CEO, commented: “This unique conference will consider all assistive technology services at policy, planning, commissioning and delivery levels, as well as the future design, demands and requirements of these services.”
Recently, a study carried out by Hft and Tunstall Healthcare highlighted the important role assistive tech can play to help alleviate the current social care crisis, fuelled by the growing elderly population.
Working to ensure AT products and services are accessible and fit for purpose for the 21st century, CECOPS says the conference will be strategic and solutions-focused, covering all aspects of provision including the planning, commissioning, procurement, service delivery and clinical & technical aspects.
“Given the crisis in health and care, nationally and internationally, addressing these issues now is critical,” continued Brian.
“It is exciting therefore to be running this event with our colleagues at BHTA. Their industry knowledge is second to none in the UK and will bring a lot of expertise to the table. This combined effort will help to shape the marketplace, and support organisations in the planning and delivery of assistive technology services both now and in the future.”
Discussing the new collaboration, Andrew Stevenson, Director General of the BHTA, said: “It is an exciting time with all of the new products, technologies and innovations coming into the marketplace; however, we need to ensure these are ready to be adopted and people know how to access them.
“Proper planning and delivery of assistive technology services is key to solving many health, care, wellbeing and accessibility issues. It is exciting to work in association with CECOPS on the delivery of this much-needed conference, especially given their expertise and commitment to improving quality and outcomes in the AT space.”
Encompassing all aspects of assistive technology, including digital health, telecare, community equipment and wheelchair services, communication and sensory equipment, smart homes, home adaptations and environmental controls, CECOPS also confirms the event will feature national and international speakers.
