Patrice Earnest serves as the Coordinator of Education and Resources at the Area Agency on Aging of the Atlanta Regional Commission. She has been with the Atlanta Regional Commission for twenty-two years. She is responsible for the coordination of the ESP database Georgia’s statewide aging resources database ESP.

Since 1996, the ESP (Enhanced Services Program) database has served as Georgia’s statewide comprehensive professional tool for information on aging and long term care services. Developed and administered by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), the database contains detailed information on more than 24,000 services from 300 service listings. It is managed locally by 15 Resource Specialists from Georgia’s 12 Area Agencies on Aging who are knowledgeable about their communities. Hundreds of professionals including case managers, information and referral specialists and service coordinators use the database to obtain current detailed information, including cost information eligibly criteria and services offered through public programs and non-profit and for profit services service providers.

ESP currently lists nearly 400 providers of health supportive services. Included in this category are providers of daily living aids, specialized clothing and assistive technology devices. The system also lists over 100 providers offering home repair/modification services. These providers have met specific inclusion criteria.

This presentation will inform attendees on how ESP is used throughout the state of Georgia. A review of current information on assistive technology devices will be discussed as well as the specific criteria used for inclusion and exclusion. A demonstration of the database will show detailed the information is that is contained in the system and used for referral purposes. There will be an opportunity to provide input and suggestions for expansion of this area.