OT & Policy Basics
What is the term for influencing decision-makers to support OT-related issues?
Advocacy
Writing to a state senator about OT licensure laws is an example of what advocacy skill?
Legislative Communication or Policy Correspondence
What does “KOTA” stand for?
Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association
True or False: Every OT practitioner has a role as a leader, regardless of title.
True
OT’s ultimate goal is to help clients engage in what?
Meaningful occupation
This national organization represents OT practitioners and supports federal advocacy efforts.
AOTA (American Occupational Therapy Association)
Name one advocacy method besides contacting legislators.
- public education
- coalition building
- community outreach
This type of law outlines requirements for OT licensure in each state.
Kentucky Occupational Therapy Practice Act
Leadership in OT often begins by advocating for whom?
For clients and the profession
Policy that restricts therapy sessions may limit what for clients?
Participation or Occupational engagement
Which document defines the roles, scope, and ethical obligations of OT practitioners?
Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF)
What is one reason it’s important for OTs to participate in advocacy?
To ensure OT services remain accessible and valued in healthcare systems.
The Affordable Care Act expanded healthcare access through what key provision?
Medicaid expansion
What is one characteristic of an effective professional leader?
Honesty, accountability, communication, or vision
When OTs advocate for inclusive policies, what societal issue are they addressing?
Health equity or accessibility
True or False: Policy only affects healthcare reimbursement, not client access or service delivery.
False — policy influences access, reimbursement, and practice environments.
In advocacy, what is a “talking point”?
A concise, evidence-based statement used to persuade decision-makers.
Which level of government primarily determines OT licensure laws?
State government
The ability or practice to unite others toward a common goal of improving care represents what leadership trait?
Collaboration or influence
What is one way OT contributes to community-level change?
Program development
Consultation
Policy advising
This concept refers to using your professional knowledge to influence systems beyond direct client care.
Professional leadership
When OTs engage in policy change for underserved populations, they are promoting what professional value?
Justice or Equity
What is one example of federal legislation that impacts OT services for children?
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
According to Dr. Fink’s learning model, leadership development falls under which domain of significant learning?
Human Dimension or Caring domain
How does advocacy strengthen OT’s value within healthcare reform?
It demonstrates OT’s impact on outcomes and cost-effectiveness, securing its role in future systems.