Kansas Dual Party Relay System

Assistive Technology for Kansans, coordinated by the University of Kansas, monitors the operation of the Kansas Dual Party Relay System (DPRS).  The program is funded through the Kansas Universal Service Fund and is administered by the Kansas Corporation Commission.  Through the DPRS persons who are deaf or hard of hearing are able to use an interpreting service to access telecommunications.  DPRS interpreting services are provided through a contracted vendor, Hamilton Relay of Aurora Nebraska.  The management of the DPRS/TAP reviews billing and performance information regarding the relay system and addresses concerns and complaints regarding interpreter services.  ATK Access Site staff provide outreach services and help consumers troubleshoot CapTel phones as needed.  DPRS program oversight is conducted by the Director of ATK. The ATK Director, TAP Coordinator, and Financial Accounting Specialist review program eligibility, provide training to demonstration and installation sites, order and manage inventory, and review and process invoices.  Public awareness activities are directed by the Communications Manager of ATK; outreach campaigns are conducted by all ATK staff.  The Director of the DPRS provides quarterly data to the ATK Advisory Council regarding usage of the relay system, applications, equipment provided, on-site installations, training, and troubleshooting/conflict resolutions conducted.  The ATK Advisory Council is comprised of 13 individuals who have disabilities and represent all regions of the state and 7 individuals representing disability agencies and organizations and are well positioned to review performance and provide suggestions to strengthen the operation of DPRS.