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What
is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is a health care profession
which provides services to people whose ability to function
in daily life has been disrupted by:
 •
Physical injury or illness
•
Developmental disabilities
•
Job-related injuries
•
Stroke
•
Neurological problems
•
Mental or emotional illness
The primary goal of Occupational Therapy is to assist individuals
to achieve a lifestyle that is independent, functional and
productive.
In what settings do Occupational Therapists work?
• Hospitals
•
Nursing Homes
•
Rehabilitation and Wellness Centers
•
Community Mental Health
•
Work/Job Industries
•
Public/Private Schools
•
Senior Centers
•
Home Health Care Agencies
What is the basis for Occupational Therapy treatment?
1.
Evaluation of patient's mental and physical capabilities.
2. Individualized
therapy which is tailored to each person's needs through the
use of purposeful activities and includes meeting short and
long-term goals.
3. Recommendations
and training in the use of adaptive equipment to replace lost
function, along with teaching of compensatory strategies and
energy conservation techniques.
4. Instruction
to family members in safe and effective methods of caring
for individuals.
5. Progress
notes to monitor progression of treatment and a discharge
summary upon release of patient from the Occupational Therapist's
care.
Questions and answers:
Q. What is the difference between Occupational and
Physical Therapy?
A. Generally speaking, Occupational Therapists focus on increasing
one's independence in the areas of activities of daily living
(bathing, dressing, grooming), work and leisure. Physical
Therapists work to improve physical function and relieve pain
using exercise, heat, cold and light therapy.
Q. Do Occupational Therapists counsel individuals seeking
advice on job placement?
A. No, Occupational Therapists assist individuals in returning
to work or in finding alternative jobs based on level of function
Occupational Therapists work as part of a caring team. Team
members include: physicians, nurses, speech and physical therapists,
exercise physiologists, social workers, prosthetists/orthotists
and family caregivers.
Who is eligible for Occupational Therapy services?
Children with birth injuries and/or developmental
disabilities.
Those who suffer from arthritis, stroke, multiple sclerosis,
burns, heart attack, amputations, spinal cord injuries, hand
injuries, traumatic brain injuries, traumatic brain injuries
and mental health problems.
How do you receive Occupational Therapy services?
Consult your physician to determine if you are an
appropriate candidate for Occupational Therapy services. A
physician's referral is necessary to obtain Occupational Therapy
services.
How do you pay for Occupational Therapy services?
•
Medicare/Medicaid
•
Primary/Secondary Insurance
•
Private Pay
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