CAOT-BC says BC budget is headed in the right direction by investing in health

The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists- BC Chapter (CAOT-BC) is encouraged by the BC Government budget announcement. “Investing in team-based primary care to expand services from physicians and other health care professionals like occupational therapists is a step in the right direction to transform how British Columbians access health services in our province” said Giovanna Boniface, National Director of Professional Affairs of CAOT.

CAOT-BC is also pleased to see investments in seniors care across the continuum including primary care, home and community care and residential care. We are optimistic that investments will be made to increase direct care hours to seniors in residential care including the addition of occupational therapy full-time equivalents (FTEs) to support seniors to maintain and thrive in their ability to participate in daily activities. According to the Seniors Advocate report of November 2016, there has been a downward trend in access to occupational therapy.Investments must be made to ensure seniors receive this vital service in a timely manner.

CAOT-BC has long advocated for improved access to occupational therapy services and will continue to meet and work with government to ensure British Columbians have access to the care they need.

About Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists (OTs) improve the health and well-being of people by creating client-centred solutions that help them participate more fully in activities that are important to their everyday lives. Whether working in homes, communities, hospitals, workplaces or schools, OTs are valued members of health teams as their interventions improve lives and save money. OTs work with patients in a range of settings with a wide variety of physical, mental and cognitive conditions that are chronic or episodic in nature.  By considering the individual, in his or her environment and determining the necessary competencies and skills set to “manage” the business of “dally functioning and living” OTs are able to unleash an individual’s potential so that s/he can participate and thrive in daily life.

About CAOT-BC

CAOT-BC is a regional chapter of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists and the voice of occupational therapists in British Columbia.

 

Contact:

Giovanna Boniface, OT

National Director of Professional Affairs; Managing Director (CAOT-BC)

Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists

1-800-434-2268 ext. 265