Occupational Therapy

What is Occupational Therapy?

The primary goal of Occupational Therapy is to enable patients to participate in the occupations of everyday life.

Occupations of everyday living include the things we need to do to look after ourselves, our work roles, and the activities we choose for leisure.

Participation in meaningful occupations is essential to our health and well-being. Occupational Therapists work with people of all ages who are experiencing barriers to participation in their day to day occupations as a result of injury, illness, mental health issues, aging, developmental concerns or socio-economic issues. Together with the patient, the Occupational Therapist identifies solutions to remove or minimize barriers in order to promote function.

What services does an Occupational Therapist provide?

  • Mobility assessments (walkers and wheelchairs) and fall prevention education
  • Cognitive (memory) assessments and driver screening assessments
  • Home safety assessments and equipment recommendations
  • Community resource linking
  • Caregiver support and education
  • Chronic pain management strategies
  • Ergonomic and return to work assessments
  • Pediatric developmental screening and system navigation

How do I get referred to the Occupational Therapist?

Please speak to your Primary Care Provider, Nurse Practitioner or other Health Care Provider at the Family Health Team who can make a referral to the Occupational Therapist.

 

After Hours Care

If I am sick after work hours do I have to go to the hospital?

If you think it's an emergency, you should go to the nearest hospital. However, you should be aware that there are several alternatives for you and your family after hours.

For example, our Family Health Team offers extended hours Monday through Thursday. We would advise you to call us prior to visiting a clinic.

As an enrolled patient you also have access to the Telephone Health Advisory Service where a registered nurse will provide you with advice about what to do about your concern, and with your permission, report back to your Physician. (1-866-553-7205). This is an after hours service, which is available Monday to Friday, between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., weekends and holidays.

Telehealth Ontario also provides free access to a registered nurse 24/7 at 1-866-797-0000. A nurse can provide both health advice on a specific concern or general health information. They do not diagnose and do not replace your physician.

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