Hey there, TinyEYE community! Today, we're diving into some frequently asked questions about occupational therapy in Ohio. Whether you're an OT, an OTA, or just curious about the field, we've got you covered with easy-to-understand answers. Let's get started!
Can Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) Complete Home Assessments?
Yes, OTAs can perform home assessments with a current client under an established OT treatment plan. They can gather objective information and report observations. However, the OT must interpret the data and collaborate with the OTA to make recommendations. This collaboration must be documented.
Can an OTA Perform a Discharge Summary?
OTAs can gather and summarize objective information but cannot interpret the data. The OT is responsible for interpreting the data and making discharge recommendations. This collaboration must also be documented.
What Are the Continuing Education Requirements?
All licensees must complete 20 contact hours of continuing education every two years, including at least one hour of ethics. If your license is valid for less than 12 months, only 10 contact hours are required, including one hour of ethics. New graduates within 12 months of their initial license are exempt from CE requirements for the first renewal.
Can an OTA Perform a Screen?
Yes, OTAs can perform screens since they are non-evaluative. However, all screens must be co-signed by the OT, and collaboration must be documented.
Are There Caseload Requirements for Occupational Therapy Practitioners?
The Ohio Occupational Therapy Practice Act does not specify caseload numbers. However, the Ohio Department of Education sets limits for school-based therapists: no more than 50 school-age children or 40 preschool children with disabilities. Schools should follow state laws to establish appropriate workloads.
Can an OTA Update Short-Term Goals?
OTAs can update short-term goals after the initial treatment plan and goals are established by the OT. Any updates must be documented as a collaboration between the OT and OTA.
What is the Caseload Ratio for School-Based Therapists?
The Ohio Department of Education sets the caseload ratio: up to 50 school-age children or 40 preschool children with disabilities. This ensures service providers can offer a free appropriate public education to their students.
Do I Need to Renew My NBCOT Certification to Practice in Ohio?
No, Ohio does not require NBCOT certification to practice, but your employer might. Without current NBCOT certification, you cannot use the OTR or COTA credentials.
How Should the Supervising OT Co-Sign Documentation?
For treatment grids, a single co-signature and date are sufficient. For handwritten documentation, each entry must be co-signed with the name, credential, and date.
Can the IEP Be Used as the OT Treatment Plan?
No, the IEP is written by the educational team and does not constitute the OT treatment plan. The OT treatment plan should include intervention approaches, types of interventions, outcomes, and any additional OT goals not listed in the IEP.
What Are a PRN OT's Responsibilities Related to Transfer of Care?
If the evaluating OT is unavailable, the client must be transferred to another OT. This transfer must be documented in the patient records.
Can an OTA Attend an IEP Meeting Without the OT?
Yes, OTAs can attend IEP meetings and present information based on previous collaboration with the OT. However, any changes to the goals must be reviewed and agreed upon by the OT.
Is It Abandonment if I Change Jobs?
Abandonment is inappropriate termination without reasonable notice. If you give reasonable notice, changing jobs does not constitute abandonment.
How Can I Care for My Clients When I'm on Vacation?
Another OT should provide coverage during your vacation. The client must be transferred to another OT if you are unavailable for an extended period.
Can the IEP Team Develop Fine Motor Goals Without OT Input?
Ideally, the OT should contribute to the IEP goals. However, if OT is included without an assessment, the OT must complete an evaluation and determine an intervention plan.
Are Electronic Signatures Acceptable?
Yes, as long as security and integrity are maintained. A copy of the individual's name, handwritten signature, and electronic signature must be on file.
Can an OT Provide Direct Service Without an Evaluation?
No, direct service requires an OT evaluation, interpretation of results, and a treatment plan. Consultative services do not require an individual treatment plan.
Can an OT Provide Direct Service Without an Evaluation in RTI?
Direct service in RTI requires an OT evaluation and treatment plan. Consultative services do not require an individual treatment plan.
Do I Retain Responsibility for a Student Who Transfers?
When a student transfers to a different district, the receiving district takes over the IEP and related services. It is good practice to summarize the student's progress for the new district.
What Should I Do With My License if I Retire?
Allow your license to expire. You are still responsible for CE requirements up to the expiration date. If selected for an audit, you must submit proof of completed CE.
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