From Small Acts to Big Wins: Policy and Advocacy in Assistive Technology - Jean Minkel will join Wayne Grau, Executive Director of NCART, Rita Stanley, President Elect of RESNA and Kelly Waugh, Clinical Advisor at Kalogon on a panel. This plenary panel offers a practical roadmap for clinicians, suppliers, and users seeking to engage in policy advocacy that drives lasting systemic change. Panelists will demystify the policy landscape—clarifying the differences between federal and state efforts—and show how everyday actions can influence decisions at all levels, from local initiatives to national policy shifts. Using real-world case studies, the discussion will highlight how strategic documentation and collaboration can amplify impact, with a special focus on how Medicare decisions shape Medicaid and private insurance policies. Attendees will leave empowered with concrete steps to turn professional insight into meaningful advocacy.
Ms. Minkel is a physical therapist and master clinician well recognized for her work in Assistive Technology. Jean has a passion for insuring that people with a mobility disability have access to the products and services needed to support full participation in life.
Jean is the Senior Vice President of Rehab and Mobility Services for Independence Care System, a not for profit, care management agency for persons living with a physical disability in New York City. She leads On A Roll, an OT/PT private practice specializing in Seating and Wheeled Mobility services.
She is the co-editor, with Michelle Lange, of the newly revised textbook, Seating and Wheeled Mobility – a Clinical Resource Guide – 2nd Edition.