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Podcasts and chats from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), which has represented occupational therapy since 1917.
Episodes & Posts
Episodes
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27 MAY 2025 · How does occupational therapy fit into the primary care puzzle? In this episode, Dr. Sue Dahl-Popolizio shares her vision and experience on integrating occupational therapy into primary care teams. From managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension to improving outcomes for patients with musculoskeletal and mental health concerns, this conversation explores the expanding role of OT in upstream, preventative care. Dr. Dahl-Popolizio unpacks the functional outcomes, cost savings, and workflow benefits of having OT in primary care settings. She also shares strategies for overcoming cultural and systemic barriers, practical documentation and billing tips, and real-world case examples that highlight the value of OT’s holistic lens.  Resources: https://www.amazon.com/Primary-Care-Occupational-Therapy-Reference/dp/3031208811/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0  https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/ojot/vol8/iss1/11/  https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Ffsh0000208  https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/ojot/vol5/iss3/11/  https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/ojot/vol7/iss2/6/  https://www.aafp.org/pubs/fpm/issues/2023/0500/occupational-therapy.html  https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/ojot/vol5/iss3/10/  https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/ojot/vol12/iss3/12/  https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14473828.2018.1433770  https://nsuworks.nova.edu/ijahsp/vol19/iss1/16/  https://www.aota.org/-/media/corporate/files/advocacy/federal/coding/2025-frequently-used-ot-cpt-and-hcpcs-codes.pdf  https://forms.aota.org/forms/everyday_evidence_copy?PODCAST=Occupational%20Therapy%20in%20Primary%20Care%20with%20Dr.%20Sue%20Dahl-Popolizio  Â
13 MAY 2025 · In this powerful episode of the AOTA Podcast, we explore the True Grit Spinal Cord Program, a groundbreaking, community-based, post-acute rehabilitation experience designed for adolescents and young adults with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Occupational therapists Keara McNair, MS, OTR/L, BCPR, ATP and Kassandra Boyd, OTD, OTR/L, share how this program, built in partnership with Rutgers University and Children’s Specialized Hospital, empowers participants to develop independence, build community, and thrive as they transition to adulthood.  Resources: https://csh.recdesk.com/Community/Page?pageId=21339 https://asia-spinalinjury.org/ https://www.rwjbh.org/patient-stories/a-second-chance-for-teens/ https://www.tapinto.net/towns/south-plainfield/sections/health-and-wellness/articles/spinal-cord-injury-patients-learn-life-and-mobility-skills-at-true-grit-camp https://www.quadcast.org/podcast-2/episode/936ac86a/s5-e13-the-true-grit-spinal-cord-injury-program  Â
1 MAY 2025 · In this episode of AOTA Podcasts, we explore the unique challenges and inspiring opportunities for occupational therapy practitioners serving rural and underserved communities. Our guests, Kalyn Briggs, PhD, OTR/L, CLA and Tim Dionne, PhD, OTR/L, share real-world experiences, highlight innovative models of care, and discuss how OTPs can bridge gaps in access to health services. Listeners will learn about key resources, advocacy efforts, and opportunities to build professional networks that support rural practice.  Resources: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/03/effective-practice-rural-communities https://www.cms.gov/about-cms/agency-information/omh/downloads/rural-strategy-2018.pdf https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/workforce-education-and-training https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/ https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/clKUCxkznJCJxPoQSvhlUyRJIE?domain=uwmedicine.org If you'd like to join https://www.aota.org/community/communities-of-practice: please be sure to complete this survey to be added to our roster: https://surveys.aota.org/s3/Rural-Therapists-CoP-Membership-Enrollment-Survey https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/17480361 https://www.rrh.org.au/ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/14401584
30 APR 2025 · In this episode of AOTA podcasts, we explore the unique challenges and inspiring opportunities for occupational therapy practitioners serving rural and underserved communities. Our guests, Kalyn Briggs, PhD, OTR/L, CLA and Tim Dionne, PhD, OTR/L, share real-world experiences, highlight innovative models of care, and discuss how OTPs, can bridge gaps in access to health services. Listeners will learn about key resources, advocacy efforts, and opportunities to build professional networks that support rural practice.
Resources:
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/03/effective-practice-rural-communities
https://www.cms.gov/about-cms/agency-information/omh/downloads/rural-strategy-2018.pdf
https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/workforce-education-and-training
https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/
https://www.uwmedicine.org/school-of-medicine/md-program/curriculum/rural-programs
https://surveys.aota.org/s3/Rural-Therapists-CoP-Membership-Enrollment-Survey
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/17480361
https://www.rrh.org.au/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/14401584
16 APR 2025 · How can occupational therapy practitioners expand their role in assistive technology development, and what does 3D printing have to do with it? In this episode of Everyday Evidence, we’re joined by Bill Janes, OTD, MSCI, OTR/L, whose work as an occupational therapist, researcher, and assistive tech advocate explores the intersection of 3D printing, client-centered care, and the PEOP framework. Together, we explore the potential of 3D printing to transform how occupational therapy practitioners approach problem-solving in assistive technology, offering customizable, affordable, and innovative solutions that can meet unique client needs in real-time. We discuss practical case examples, lessons from an ALS clinic collaboration, and recent research that demystifies the design process and challenges assumptions about cost and feasibility. Â
Resources:
https://www.makersmakingchange.com/
https://www.thingiverse.com/
https://www.tinkercad.com/
https://www.atia.org/
https://www.resna.org/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1719134378304205
https://atatlab.missouri.edu/ Â
Research Articles Referenced:Â Â
https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2022.2034996
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https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2022.2060355
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https://doi.org/10.1177/15394492251326058
https://forms.aota.org/forms/everyday_evidence_copy?PODCAST=3D%20Printing%20and%20OT%E2%80%99s%20Role%20in%20Assistive%20Technology%20with%20Bill%20Janes
25 MAR 2025 · In this episode, we’re joined by Jennifer Johnson and Amanda Fonner to explore the dynamic collaboration between occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs). Jennifer and Amanda share their insights into what makes OT/OTA partnerships successful, how understanding each other's roles enhances patient outcomes, and why teaching this collaboration is crucial for the next generation of practitioners. Whether you’re an experienced practitioner, a student, or just curious about how intraprofessional collaboration can elevate occupational therapy, this episode is packed with practical advice and thoughtful reflections.  Note: The speakers in this podcast have chosen to use the terms OT, OTR, OTA, and COTA during their discussion. AOTA recognizes that practitioners across the United States may use different terms and/or credentials, depending on their personal preference and the state practice act under which they are licensed.   Resources
- https://www.aota.org/practice/practice-essentials/ot-and-ota-intraprofessional-collaboration
- https://research.aota.org/ajot/article/74/Supplement_3/7413410020p1/6690/Guidelines-for-Supervision-Roles-and
- https://www.aota.org/publications/ot-practice/ot-practice-issues/2023/lets-talk-dei-intraprofessional-collaboration
- https://www.aota.org/practice/practice-essentials/ethics
(Please note that some resources may require AOTA membership to access) Â Â Â Â
5 MAR 2025 · In honor of National Black History Month and Women's History Month, this special episode explores the invaluable contributions of Black women occupational therapy practitioners, scholars, and leaders who have shaped the profession and continue to drive health equity forward. We are joined by Arameh Anvarizadeh, Natalie Chang Wright, and co-host Varleisha Lyons to reflect on the legacy of trailblazers who broke barriers, discuss the ongoing challenges in diversifying the field, and highlight the critical role of occupational therapy in addressing health disparities. Featuring insightful conversations with established voices in OT, this episode examines the future of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy in building a more inclusive and equitable profession.
Additional Resources:
https://www.aota.org/practice/practice-essentials/dei
https://research.aota.org/ajot/article/77/5/7705347010/24982/Promoting-Health-Equity-Through-Holistic?searchresult=1
https://www.aota.org/career/diverse-leaders-program
DISCLAIMER:Â The views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the authors and speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or endorsements of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). AOTA does not assume responsibility for any interpretations, applications, or consequences of this material in light of current laws or policies. This presentation is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or regulatory guidance. Attendees/Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal, regulatory, or organizational policies regarding compliance with current federal and state laws on DEI-related content. By attending/listening to this session, participants acknowledge that they do so voluntarily and agree that neither the presenters nor AOTA shall be held liable for any actions taken based on the information provided.
12 FEB 2025 · On today's episode, we delve into the pressing issue of concussions and their often-overlooked aftermath. Anna Boone and Whitney Henderson share their expertise and discuss the staggering number of individuals who sustain concussions each year in the U.S., many of whom remain undiagnosed or lack access to follow-up care and rehabilitation services. While much attention has been focused on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), we shine a light on those experiencing post-concussion syndrome (PCS) with mild persistent symptoms that hinder their daily lives. This episode emphasizes occupational therapy practitioners' critical role in evaluating and intervening in these cases, particularly regarding high-level instrumental activities of daily living, work, school, and social participation. Join us as we explore effective metacognitive strategies that empower clients to recognize meaningful changes and engage in their recovery process. https://forms.aota.org/forms/everyday_evidence_copy?PODCAST=Everyday%20Evidence:%20Post%20Concussion%20Syndrome Additional Resources: https://research.aota.org/ajot/article/78/2/7802180080/25087/Addressing-Participation-in-Adults-With https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38373065/ https://healthsciences.missouri.edu/directory/personnel/anna-e-boone/ https://healthsciences.missouri.edu/directory/personnel/whitney-henderson/
29 JAN 2025 · In today's episode, we speak with Emily Barr about patient safety and some of the research and advocacy efforts she has been involved in as the Nebraska Coalition for Patient Safety executive director. She describes OT's distinct role in addressing patient safety and provides recommendations for students, clinicians, educators, and advocates to improve patient safety standards, reduce healthcare costs, and improve patient outcomes. https://forms.aota.org/forms/everyday_evidence_copy?PODCAST=Everyday%20Evidence:%20Patient%20Safety Additional Resources: https://www.qualityforum.org/ProjectDescription.aspx?projectID=98544 https://www.qualityforum.org/News_And_Resources/Press_Releases/2024/NQF_to_Update_and_Harmonize_Serious_Adverse_Event_Reporting_Criteria_Essential_to_Protect_Patients_From_Preventable_Harm.aspx https://pso.ahrq.gov/resources/act https://healthjournalism.org/blog/2024/09/new-structural-patient-safety-measure-for-hospitals-what-to-know/ https://www.cms.gov/medicare/provider-enrollment-and-certification/qapi/qapidefinition
15 JAN 2025 · On Today's episode, we speak with Tasha Holmes and Lauren Wlazelek about how AOTA Fellowship Programs can enhance your OT practice. They highlight the benefits and opportunities that recognized fellowships can bring to individual practitioners and organizations. Additionally, they share personal and systematic examples of how fellowship participation benefits students, practitioners, patients, universities, and health systems. Additional Resources: Visit the https://www.aota.org/career/career-center/fellowship-program to learn moreÂ
Podcasts and chats from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), which has represented occupational therapy since 1917.
Information
| Author | AOTA |
| Organization | American Occupational Therapy Association |
| Categories | Medicine |
| Website | www.spreaker.com |
| - |
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