Again Joe, I applaud your definitions and really like it. BUT, there needs to be more "meat". I'm not trying to be argumentative just for the sake of arguing, but I just can't see this making a definitive impact on physicians. I feel that there needs to me more specifics. I could just as easily be a PT standing in front of the doctor giving this spiel. In fact, that's my biggest challenge; To convince doctors to refer to me instead of PT. I know that mental deficits is not one of PT's big points, but they are making inroads in to this domain. I think also, a MD needs to know EXACTLY when to refer to OT.
Expanding your definition means that OT readily assesses and addresses patient's with LE deficits such as THR, TKA, sports injuries, etc. And the fact of the matter is that most OT's don't address these things. Sure, they may address self-care deficits as they relate to the above surgeries, but OT's generally do NOT do LE ROM, strengthening, etc. So, it seems to me that your definition is VERY broad, perhaps too broad. And again this is my problem. I need to narrow down OT's role in adult physical dysfunction and explain in a way that a doctor say "oh, that's what you do". But, and with all due respect, your definition is just too academic and theoretical. Thanks for taking time to write and please don't stop... Ron ----- Original Message ----- From: Joe Wells <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Saturday, January 27, 2007 To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subj: [OTlist] What is OT's Speciality???? JW> "...I assess and address the client's physical and mental deficits (that are JW> not subject to spontaneous recovery), and also the client's environmental JW> needs to enable them to function as independently and safely as possible..." -- 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 **************************************************************************************
