Waitlist and Appointment Scheduling
Q: If there is a waitlist for an ongoing treatment time, what may help me get a sooner appointment?
A: Having a flexible schedule and/or identifying a few different options that work for your family’s schedule will help to get your child into therapy more quickly. You may also be able to sign up as a “float patient” when there is a waitlist for treatment times. As a float patient, your child is assigned to a therapist and appointments are scheduled one visit at a time, based on your assigned therapist’s availability. However, being a float patient requires great flexibility (2-6 months) and short notice appointments. Families will be offered a regular appointment when one becomes available.
Therapist Assignment
Q: Will the therapist who completed my evaluation be my child’s ongoing therapist?
A: We strive to schedule your child with the evaluating therapist for continuity of care. However, scheduling is based on availability. Your child may be assigned another qualified therapist if they have an opening that works with your schedule.
Telemedicine Visits
Q: My child has been scheduled for a telemedicine visit. How does this work?
A: Occupational therapy services are offered onsite or through telemedicine, depending on factors like insurance, needs, preference, child’s health, and distance. Due to licensing restrictions, telemedicine visits require being within California.
For more information on setting up a telemedicine visit, click here.
Medical vs. School-Based Occupational Therapy
Q: What is the difference between medical/outpatient occupational therapy and school-based occupational therapy services?
A: Medical/outpatient therapy starts with a diagnosis and a referral. An occupational therapist evaluates the child and determines if they benefit from ongoing treatment. Goals are to improve daily activities, feeding skills, and community participation. Medical insurance typically covers the cost.
School-based therapy starts when teachers, parents, or the IEP team identify academic struggles. These federally mandated services are free and focus on improving participation in the academic setting. They are considered a “related service.”