Mission Statement
"To support all people with an intellectual, or physical challenge, to reach their full potential through the use of assistive technology and enabling devices."
Who is Mercarik?
- Mercarik Inc. is an Assistive Technology consulting firm focused on evaluation, design and implementation of multiple varying systems and contrivances to enhance the lives of people with varying physical or intellectual challenges.
- The assistive / enabling technology evaluated for and provided is intended to increase the safety, independence and functional capabilities of the person served. Individual devices and systems are modified and tailored to suit the specific and unique abilities of a user’s current capacity. Future needs and anticipated capabilities are considered in the planning process.
- Mercarik Inc. is a Minnesota DHS approved provider, and works with Case Managers to use waiver funding to cover assistive / enabling technology equipment.
Certifications
- RESNA - Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) Matthew Hansen earned the Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) certification through the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America, (RESNA). An ATP analyzes the needs of individuals with disabilities, assists in the selection of the appropriate equipment and trains the consumer on how to properly use the specific equipment. The ATP certification recognizes those who have reached an internationally accepted standard of knowledge in assistive technology and who demonstrate a commitment to provide only the highest ethical standards of practice. To become certified, one has to establish eligibility (through work and education), and then successfully pass a rigorous exam that tests competency in the field of assistive technology. The exam covers main principles of assistive technology including psychology and sociology; human anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and biomechanics; basic etiologies and pathologies; learning and teaching; assessment procedures; service delivery systems and funding for assistive technology; design and product development; product knowledge of assistive technology devices; integration of person, technology and the environment and professional conduct.
- Environmental Accessibility Specialist (EAS)
This certification is identified as "accessibility specialist" on the certification card. This certification is granted to an individual who has met the "accessibility specialist" requirements established by rule and passed the written examination prepared by the state. An individual with this classification is limited to the administration of those provisions of the State Building Code that provide access for persons with disabilities. For the purposes of calculating fees under section 326B.092, certification as an accessibility specialist is a journeyman license.
