Columbia VAHCS recognizes Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapy Month is held annually to raise awareness about the importance of OT and recognize the contributions of occupational therapists and assistants. The theme for 2024 is ‘Occupational Therapy: Advancing Health, Well-Being, and Quality of Life,’ honoring the dedicated professionals who bring hope and possibilities to the forefront of Veterans' lives.  

“The Department of Veterans Affairs is actually the nation’s largest employer of occupational therapists,” said Robert Mertz, the OT supervisor at Columbia VA Health Care System. “OT helps Veterans to optimize functional performance in areas that are meaningful to their lives, such as bathing, dressing, personal hygiene called ADLs or activities of daily living.”

During Occupational Therapy Month, various activities and events are organized to highlight the role of OT in enhancing people's quality of life. These activities may include public seminars, workshops, community outreach programs, and social media campaigns to educate people about the diverse ways in which OT can help individuals of all ages and abilities.

OTs are trained to help patients who have just suffered from short-term acute conditions, such as heart attacks, organ transplants, or broken bones. They also work with patients for the long haul to help them regain their strength and prevent further damage according to the Royal College of Occupational Therapy 

OT is a healthcare profession that focuses on helping individuals develop, regain, or maintain the skills necessary for daily life activities or occupations. Occupational therapists work with people of all ages who may experience physical, developmental, social, or emotional challenges. They assess individuals' needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and provide interventions that may include therapeutic exercises, adaptive equipment, environmental modifications, and skill-building activities to promote independence and participation in meaningful activities.

“As an OT, I think that we are of benefit to individuals with a wide range of needs,” said Amy Ray, the acting lead occupational therapist at CVAHCS. “We specialize on what matters most: life, independence and happiness.” Ray has been an OT for almost 31 years.

Occupational Therapy Month serves as a platform to recognize the significant impact occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants have on the lives of their clients. It also aims to educate the public about the many ways in which occupational therapy can improve health, well-being, and overall quality of life.