Do I Need a Prescription for Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy “helps people across their lifespan to do the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of daily activities (occupations). Occupational therapy practitioners enable people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health, and prevent—or live better with—injury, illness, or disability.” Receiving occupational therapy in Indiana however just got easier – read more below to find out how!

What Conditions Do Occupational Therapists Treat?

Athletico’s occupational therapists (OT’s) primarily treat upper extremity diagnoses such as fractures, tendinitis, tendon repairs, nerve damage, carpal tunnel, and arthritis. OT’s also specialize in treating patients who have suffered a stroke, traumatic brain injury, amputation, and burns. OT’s use techniques including custom splinting, strengthening programs, modifications, and activities of daily living retraining to restore function and promote healing. Athletico OT’s are trained to deliver the best care possible to get you back to doing the things you love.

Occupational Therapy is Now Offered in Indiana Without a Prescription

Some states require you to see a physician and get a prescription before seeing one of our occupational therapists. This means you have direct access to occupational therapy, without the need for a referral or prescription from your physician. Starting July 1, 2021 patients in Indiana can start occupational therapy without a prescription. Direct access provides you with an immediate therapy option that allows you to start your treatment as soon as possible.

During your appointment, an OT will evaluate your condition and design a custom treatment plan specific to your injury or condition. Occupational therapists may also provide referrals to physicians who specialize in treating certain injuries or conditions. Athletico OT’s work closely with physicians and patients to ensure the best treatment and outcome possible.

How Can I Set Myself Up For Success Using Direct Access?

Research shows that individuals who seek out early treatment after an injury typically have better outcomes than those that wait. A research article published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy provides evidence to support the benefits of splinting, early range of motion, and the effectiveness of in-person treatment and custom home exercise programs, all of which an occupational therapist is able to provide.² Individuals may put off seeing an occupational therapist due to the need for a physician referral in order to make an appointment, prolonging the treatment process. With direct access, individuals book an appointment on their own, and receive occupational therapy earlier before their symptoms develop into a more serious injury. For example, carpal tunnel is a common injury, which if treated early, may be relieved without the need for surgery.

Get Started Today

Direct access opens up more treatment options for individuals earlier on in the injury process by allowing the potential for quicker and easier access to occupational therapy services. Alongside direct access, occupational therapists will continue to provide individuals with referrals, when medically appropriate, to physicians and other health care providers who specialize in treating certain injuries or conditions. Set yourself up for success and call or visit an Athletico near you to request an occupational therapy appointment today!

Find a Hand Therapist Near You

*Direct access rules vary by state and service. Be sure to contact your nearest Athletico for more information on if your state allows for direct access, without a prescription, to Occupational Therapy.

References
1. “What is Occupational Therapy?” American Occupational Therapy Association, 2021. http://www.aota.org/Conference-Events/OTMonth/what-is-OT.aspx. Accessed 11 June 2021.
2. Roll, Shawn C. and Hardison, Mark E. “Effectiveness of Occupational Therapy Interventions for Adults With Musculoskeletal Conditions of the Forearm, Wrist, and Hand: A Systematic Review.” American Journal of Occupational Therapy. vol. 71, no. 1, 2017, http://ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=259447. Accessed 11 June 2021.

The Athletico blog is an educational resource written by Athletico employees. Athletico bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics outlined by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the individual author based on their expertise and experience. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.