Public Policy

Question 1

What is the #1 reason that public policy is important to OT?

Answer 1

Coverage/Payment

Question 2

In what ways has public policy shaped OT work settings?

Answer 2

a. Deinstitutionalization of mental health patients in 1970’s
b. Federal Education of the Handicapped Act (IDEA) passed in 1975
c. Medicare Part B coverage of OT in 1987
d. Medicare Part B provided in Skilled Nursing Facilities in 1990’s

Question 3

What are the steps of the Legislative Process?

Answer 3

1. Issue/policy suggestion by representative or senator
2. Sponsor for bill
3. Referral for committee
4. House floor

Question 4

What are the steps of the Regulatory Process?

Answer 4

1. Agencies Implement: “the Executive Branch”
2. Agencies interpret laws
3. Agencies issue “plain language” guidance on how to implement
4. Agencies must involve public: publish proposed “rules”, take comments into consideration

Question 5

What does AOTPAC stand for?

Answer 5

American Occupational Therapy Political Action Committee

Question 6

Who supports AOTPAC?

Answer 6

AOTA members only

Question 7

What are a few ways to advocate for OT?

Answer 7

1. Call legislators, meet with legislators, write legislators
2. Attend State Captiol lobby days
3. Participate in town hall meetings when your legislators hold them in or near your hometown
4. Join and participate in advocacy groups such as Easter Seals
5. Participate in Capitol Hill Day every year
6. Become a member of AOTA and encourage classmates to do the same
7. Follow legislatures on social media and start a conversation with them
8. Use your social media skills to create an advocacy group or blog on OT