What are the key financial considerations when working with an Occupational Therapist?

In this post, we cover the 5 the key financial considerations when working with an Occupational Therapist.  We finish off with a link to research that proves the cost effectiveness of working with an occupational therapist. Simply put, a cost-effectiveness ratio is the net cost divided by changes in health outcomes and research demonstrates that working with an OT delivers positive outcomes well in excess of the cost. 

1. Cost of sessions
   • Depending on the area of therapy, the cost of sessions varies depending on assessments used, therapist time, level of expertise, demand for the service and reports required.
   • From the very start, it is important to discuss this with your occupational therapist so that you have a clear understanding of the financial costs.
2. Equipment
   • There may a variety of equipment that may be a consideration when engaging in therapy. Whether a person may require a wheelchair, a new pencil grip, a piece of sensory equipment or some gardening equipment, your OT will be able to advise on where to find good quality and value products.
   • If you feel a piece of equipment is not needed – speak with your OT to see if there is any alternative option to reach your goals.
   • A medical card holder may be entitled to some equipment which the OT may prescribe.
3. Insurance
   • If someone has private health insurance, it may be possible to get money back on OT sessions (please check your individual policy details).
   • Some insurance companies cover medical equipment such as wheelchairs (again, please check your individual policy details).
4. Grants
   • There are a range of local authority grants which people may qualify for depending on equipment or work that may need to be carried out to achieve the desired outcome.
5. VAT
   • There are a range of items which can be purchased VAT free – these include wheelchairs, rollators, tri-walkers, wheelchair accessories, etc.
   • Apart from these items, VAT can be claimed back on a range of riser recliners, hoists, communication aids, domestic aids, commode chairs, etc.
   • How to reclaim VAT on aids and appliances for persons with disabilities (revenue.ie)

Cost effectiveness

• Occupational therapy has been shown to be cost-effective in a number of research studies.
  • (Occupational therapy: cost-effective solutions for changing health system needs – PubMed (nih.gov)

Rexe, K., Lammi, B. M., & Zweck, C. v. (2013). Occupational therapy: cost-effective solutions for changing health system needs. Healthcare quarterly (Toronto, Ont.), 16(1), 69–75.

• Cost‐effectiveness of Occupational Therapy in Older People: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials (wiley.com)

 

Financial considerations aside, occupational therapy has been shown to maximise health, well-being, and quality of life through effective solutions that facilitate participation in everyday living.

If you have any queries in relation to financial consideration – contact your local Occupational Therapist to find out more.