School-Based Vs. Medically-Based Occupational Therapy. What’s the Difference?

I frequently get asked the question “What’s the difference between school-based and medically-based occupational therapy?”.

Working in schools, sometimes there is confusion with staff and parents between what a school-based OT should be addressing vs what is considered medically-based OT.

Whether you are a school-based OT or a medically-based OT, parent, teacher or caregiver, the important thing to note is an OT, depending on the setting, addresses different needs.

So let’s jump in and look at the differences.

What is School-Based Occupational Therapy?

School-based occupational therapy (OT) is provided in a school setting to help children with disabilities or developmental delays achieve their academic and functional goals.

The primary focus of school-based OT is to promote a child’s success in school through the development of skills necessary for academic and social engagement.

School-based OT is focused on helping children with disabilities or delays participate fully in the school environment.

Occupational therapists in schools work with students to improve their abilities to perform tasks required in the classroom, such as writing, typing, using scissors, and organizing materials.

School-based OTs may also work with students on sensory processing, self- regulation, social skills, and tasks to help them become more independent in a school environment.

They collaborate with teachers and other school staff to develop strategies that help students succeed in school.

What is Medically-Based Occupational Therapy?

Medically-based occupational therapy is provided in a clinical or hospital setting to help individuals with a wide range of medical conditions or injuries regain their functional abilities, independence, and quality of life.

This type of therapy is often prescribed by a doctor or healthcare provider.

Medically-based occupational therapists work with patients to improve their physical abilities and independence.

This may include working on fine motor skills, such as grasping and manipulating objects, as well as self-care skills such a getting dressed or brushing teeth.

This type of occupational therapy may include interventions to help with daily living skills, fine motor control, coordination, and sensory integration.

What are the Key Differences?

While both school-based and medically-based occupational therapy are focused on improving an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks, there are 2 key differences:

1. Setting: School-based occupational therapy is provided in a school setting, while medically-based occupational therapy is provided in a clinical or hospital setting.
2. Focus: School-based occupational therapy is focused on helping children participate fully in the school environment, while medically-based occupational therapy is focused on helping individuals recover from injury.

Parents and caregivers can often want all of their child’s needs addressed in one place.

While this can seem like a good idea, it often isn’t.

Although many OT’s can address both school-based and medically-based needs, some may not have worked in both environments, or have limited experience in one or the other.

When looking for services you generally want someone who has the focus and expertise in the areas you want addressed.

Make sure to ask questions and find out what experience the OT has and if they are comfortable addressing the areas of need.

Until next time.