Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA)

The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) is an interdisciplinary association composed of individuals interested in technology and disability. Professionals in RESNA include occupational therapists, physical therapists, rehabilitation engineers, speech-language pathologists, special educators, manufacturers, and durable medical equipment suppliers. Consumers of assistive technology also belong to RESNA.

RESNA started in 1980 as early research and development work in the field began at federally funded rehabilitation engineering research centers (RERCs). Each RERC focuses on one specific area of assistive technology, developing new technology, training new professionals, and providing information to the public.

RESNA provides a forum for individuals with a common interest in a particular area of assistive technology, through special interest groups (SIGs). In addition, RESNA's professional specialty groups (PSGs) provide a way for specific disciplines to communicate with one another.

Through the Technical Assistance Project and Alternate Financing Project, RESNA provides assistance to the 56 state and territory assistive technology programs. These programs are funded under Public Law 105–394 to increase awareness of and access to assistive technology in each area.

Through its credentialing program, RESNA provides a mechanism for professionals to demonstrate a knowledge and skill base critical to the delivery of assistive technology services. Three credentials exist: assistive technology practitioner (ATP), assistive technology supplier (ATS), and rehabilitation engineering technologist (RET).

RESNA's international sister organizations—the Association for the Advancement of Assistive Technology in Europe (AAATE), the Rehabilitation Engineering Society of Japan (RESJA), and the Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association (ARATA)—provide forums for similar work around the world. On August 26, 2000, the leaders of the four organizations signed the Tokushima Agreement to promote exchange of information and collaboration.