I had the same situation with my current hospital of which I been here 1 ½ years now. The first 6 months were not fun, but I had to get some b_ _ _ s. The OT department before I was hired completed treatment for hands only outpatient and completed bed baths inpatient.
I tried to fight head on, but PT department ruled for so long and even the local doctors referred patients to PT only and then only if the PTs thought it were more appropriate for OT, Then OT would get an order. So I took another approach. (I was able to do this because I am the director of OT and the administrator is being Pro-OT.) The inpatient problem was easily solved with nursing and now OT and nursing dept work together very well. OT is not bath aides, but we work on functional mobility during ADLs. PT dept has kind a step aside on this matter and quite giving us trouble over this matter. The outpatient problem has been revolving and improving in the long run. I took another approach and looked into areas PT wasnt covering. (I did convince them to send me elbows.) I did a marketing campaign for OT to local and neighboring town doctors. I received 2 certifications last year: Saeboflex and Interactive Metronome and this summer plan to setup vision program and a new hire OTR/L has Lymph edema certification. The Saeboflex has been exploding and I have 2 neuro doctors referring me patients even 100 miles away. My name is getting more recognized with doctors both because of the specialized programs and patients with more traditional OT. Bottom line: I knew I could compete over the type of patients PT was seeing for years, but I added and started new programs. The most frustrating part is that I have to work really hard to get my caseload up and I didnt have to do that before. I keep telling myself its a Challenge and when it becomes more a burden I will be ready to move on to a different employment. Its nice to hear from other fellow OTs. Thank you. Cimberly Viken, OTR/L Disclaimer: This message contains privileged and confidential information intended for the use of the addressee only. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying or distribution is strictly prohibited. -- Options? www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com Archive? www.mail-archive.com/[email protected] ************************************************************************************** Enroll in Boston University's post-professional Master of Science for OTs Online. Gain the skills and credentials to propel your career. www.otdegree.com/otn **************************************************************************************
