Process and Credentials

Question 1

Referral Process

Answer 1

• Client referred to OT in a medical setting (doctor’s orders, prescription, etc.)
• Different referral methods for in-patient, home health, outpatient and schools
• OT will complete an evaluation, which includes info about what client can/can’t do and what is to be addressed
• Info from eval guides OT in customizing intervention (Treatment Plan) in conjunction with client and family as appropriate.

Question 2

How an OTA decides what to do for treatment sessions:

Answer 2

• OT’s intervention plan is guide.
• Tells you what you need to know (problems, what to work on)
• Base treatments on GOALS in the treatment plan
• Listen to patients regarding their own care (or CG/family) and communicate with OTR
• Use clinicial reasoning to decide what you will have client do to meet the goals

Question 3

OTA Roles in Documentation Paperwork

Answer 3

• Assist OTR with eval
• Treatment planning
• Provide input on progress
• Accurate and up-to-date documentation
• Provide treatment
• Collaborate on developing interventions
• Goal development
• Maintain communication regarding caseload
• Standardized testing

Question 4

OT Credentials

Answer 4

CBOT = California Board of Occupational Therapy (CA License requires 24 CE hours/2 yrs)
NBCOT = National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (36 CE hours/3 yrs)
COTA/L = OTA that is certified through NBCOT and licensed
OTR/L = OT who is registered with NBCOT and licensed
OTAS = OTA Student (ME!)
CHT = Certified Hand Therapist (only OTR can)