OTA Members – be a part of building the OTA & PTA Practice Network at CAOT! CAOT is looking for a core group of OTAs to join the OTA & PTA Practice Network Chair to build on the work being done to strengthen the OTA voice in the profession. A few envisioned activities would be to develop an OTA Appreciation Day as part of OT Month in October, and to explore the creation of education resources for OTAs with a COVID-19 lens.
Future goals of the Network include mentorship for new OT grads working with OTAs, and discussion on the changing roles of OTAs amidst the pandemic.
Introduction
The role of an Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA) and Physiotherapist Assistant (PTA) is diverse and is emerging throughout various clinical practice settings. While working under the supervision of a therapist, OTAs and PTAs work independently to provide treatment to a wide range of clients with professional accountability and proficiency. The OTA & PTA Network is a tool for the professional collaboration of OTs and OTA & PTAs, as well as a place for assistants to connect from coast to coast.
Purpose
The purpose of the OTA and PTA Practice Network is to act as a resource for OTs and OTAs. We are looking to enable further connections and collaboration between the professions, while exploring the expansion of opportunities and understanding.
Objectives
- To promote the collaboration and to expand the possibilities of incorporating OTA and PTAs into various OT practice settings
- To act as an educational resource on the roles and responsibilities on an OTA and PTA
- To connect OTs and assistants in combined professional development opportunities
- To create an online platform for shared information and resources related to OTA practice
- To support and develop the working relationship between OTs and OTA and PTAs
- To build OTA membership within the CAOT
- Advocacy for the OTA profession
- To create and plan OTA Appreciation Day during OT Month
Activities
The activities of the network will vary depending on the current needs of it’s members. Some examples include:
- Education and knowledge sharing of the OTA and PTA skill set and role
- Discussion on how OTA and PTAs are being utilized in clinical settings
- To develop further understanding of the dual-training element of an OTA & PTA and how it creates opportunity for treatment collaboration between professions
- Opportunities and benefits of training OTA students
- Mentorship between OT students and new graduates and OTAs
- To explore role changes and optimize the usage of OTA and PTAs during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Network Chair Contact Information
Debra Cooper, OTA & PTA (ON): debra.otaptanetwork@gmail.com
Resources
OTA Practice Profile (2018)
Join us!
If you wish to become a member, send us an email at networks@caot.ca.