Frequently Asked Questions about Private and Public Occupational Therapy
What is the difference between private and public occupational therapy?
Public occupational therapy (OT) is funded through Medicare. Public occupational therapists (OTs) may work at hospitals, community-based home care or school programs. Private occupational therapy is funded by the client or third party payer such as an insurance company.
Should I or my child see both a public and a private occupational therapist?
You may wish to seek private OT if you or your child are on a waiting list for public OT or if you want to supplement the treatment you or your child is receiving.
It is very important to let your private OT know that you are waiting for public OT or if you have seen a public OT in the past. Likewise, when you first see a public OT it is important to let him/her know that you or your child have been seen by a private OT in the past or are seeing one currently. It is also essential to share any written reports or recommendations with both OTs. It is very helpful to give consent so the OTs can communicate directly.
Neither public nor private OTs will communicate or share information without your express and written consent.
Finally, you may wish to have both public and private OTs work with you and your child concurrently. If so, it is critical for you to communicate who is addressing which occupational therapy issue.
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