What is an Occupational Therapy Program?

The Citizens Medical Center Occupational Therapy Program is an integral part of a comprehensive group of rehabilitation specialists who utilize their knowledge and skill level to restore patients to their greatest functional potential.  The ultimate objective is to provide the patient “skills for the job of living” independent and satisfying lives. 

This program has been developed and functions in accordance with the American Occupational Therapy Association and the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners.

Who can Benefit from an Occupational Therapy Program?

A wide variety of people can benefit from occupational therapy, including those with:

What are the Goals of an Occupational Therapy Program?

How does the Occupational Therapy Program Work?

The Occupational Therapy Program is offered in three stages.

Inpatient – While in the hospital, the Occupational Therapist will direct and supervise your immediate activity program and provide you with education about the recovery process.

Outpatient – This stage of the program may be entered immediately following a hospital stay or simply as a “walk-in.”  At this level of rehabilitation, the Occupational Therapist will complete a comprehensive evaluation, develop a working occupational therapy diagnosis, establish an outcome, select direct interventions, and provide patient-/family-related instructions/education.  The overall objective at this stage is to obtain the most optimal functional outcome possible for the patient.

Maintenance – This stage of the program is an ongoing option for those that have completed the Outpatient stage of the program.  This program is designed to maintain the functional level and benefits achieved during the Outpatient stage.  The Maintenance stage of the program, which involves a monthly fee, is an option for individuals who want to continue their exercise program and social/clinical interaction.

How do you Begin an Occupational Therapy Program?

A physician’s referral is required for both inpatient and outpatient occupational therapy services.  Once the referral is made, the Occupational Therapist will complete your evaluation, determine intervening modalities, establish diagnosis-related goals, and implement a treatment regime.  This information, along with your medical history, will help us to develop your individualized occupational therapy program.  Communication occurs with your physician through written progress notes that monitor your progress through the Occupational Therapy program.

Insurance companies cover inpatient and outpatient occupational therapy.  We would be glad to contact your insurance company to establish pre-certification and to inquire about coverage prior to beginning the program.

For more information about Citizens Medical Center or Citizens HealthPlex Occupational Therapy Programs, contact the Occupational Therapy Department at (361)572-5030 or (361)582-1109.