5 answers about Occupational Therapy by a physical therapist
Rumy Petkov, OT is an occupational therapist and owner of Petkov Bodywork Therapy. His business provides Medicare beneficiaries with in-home fall prevention and fall recovery rehabilitation.
Medicare physical therapy and occupational therapy services delivered in the home | Serving Phoenix, Arizona. After a fall, it may be difficult to feel safe on your feet again [1]. The fear of falling may lead to decreased activity around the home, accelerated deconditioning and further weakness in adults. A major role of occupational therapists working with patients in their home is to build confidence, strength, and balance after a fall. Occupational therapists also make recommendations for home safety and modifications. Falling may result in fear of falling which may then lead to a further decline in overall functional status.
- What does an occupational therapist do to reduce falls at home?
- How do I know if my parents are at risk for a fall?
- Does Medicare pay for fall prevention?
- Does my mom need a referral for a home evaluation?
- Why do I keep dragging my feet when I walk?A shuffling gait pattern may increase one’s risk of falling and may be attributed to several medical conditions. Spinal stenosis, Parkinson's Disease, and Peripheral Neuropathy are just some of the most common conditions.
“Home hazard reduction strategies” are part of an overall comprehensive rehabilitation program. Therapeutic exercises, home modifications, balance and proprioceptive training are part of a multi-modal program.
Another important component of fall prevention and rehabilitation is appropriate testing. [3] Several peer reviewed tests including Berg Balance, Tinetti Gait, and the Timed Up and Go are low cost, effective diagnostic tools that could help identify an increased risk of falling.
Yes, Medicare Part B will pay for an occupational therapist in the Phoenix, AZ area to perform a house call, in-home fall assessment and evaluation.
No. Under Medicare Part B coverage a beneficiary may receive an initial evaluation without a referral. If further treatment is required then the Medicare beneficiary is required to be under the care of a physician or non-physician practitioner to qualify for Medicare coverage.
