Occupational Therapy

Practice Guidelines

Prescriptions

Occupational therapists can perform occupational therapy evaluations without a referral or prescription. However, to implement an OT treatment plan, you must have a referral or prescription from a physician or nurse practitioner.

Prescriptions and referrals establish an important link between the patient's/client's occupational therapist and his/her primary healthcare provider. You are required by Education Law to obtain a prescription or referral before beginning treatment.

The referral/prescription becomes part of the record which the occupational therapist must maintain for each patient/client you serve.