OT Unplugged: Community of Practice Insights

Sarah Collison, Nikki Cousins and Alyce Svensk
OT Unplugged: Community of Practice Insights

OT Unplugged is a space for you to connect, reflect and stay up to date on OT practice and the evolving world of the NDIS.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    S03E09 - NDIS impairment notices, disability related health supports & making changes to reports.

    In this weeks episode we discuss NDIS impairment notices, disability related health supports & making changes to reports. Link below to the participant access information request form: https://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/policies/access-information/participant-information-access-request

    50 min

  2. DEC 5

    S03E08 - Balancing personal and professional life, impact of NDIS policy on OT practice and opportunities for OT advocacy

    In this week's episode we discuss the balance of personal and professional life, impact of NDIS policy on OT practice and opportunities for OT advocacy.

    45 min

  3. NOV 28

    S03E07 - AI in practice, Music & Art therapy, Replacement supports and OTSI

    In this week's episode we discuss AI in practice, Music & Art therapy, Replacement supports and OTSI Music therapy petition: https://www.change.org/p/keep-music-therapy-as-an-ndis-funded-therapeutic-support Link to OTSI: http://www.otsi.net.au/ Link to AI Privacy & Security for Occupational Therapists workshop: https://www.verveotlearning.com.au/ai-privacy-security-for-occupational-therapists

    44 min

  4. NOV 20

    S03E06 - Christmas shutdown period and using AI to support OT practice

    This week we discuss plans for the Christmas shutdown period and how OTs can use AI to support their OT practice: Link to ACCC media release - https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/ndis-providers-put-on-notice-about-consequences-of-misleading-advertising Link to AI training workshops - https://www.verveotlearning.com.au/store/#business  If you would like to share anything with us, ask a question or suggest a discussion piece please complete this form! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHZswuTRmhDjRV6fBHKTZ9LuPKNLnEV_EaMI0MS9I-b_kujw/viewform

    42 min

  5. NOV 14

    S03E05 - Eligibility reassessments and requests for evidence

    In this week's episode, we discuss eligibility reassessments and responding to requests for evidence. Link to the Reasonable and Necessary Supports Across the Lifespan Paper: https://individualisedliving.com.au/resource/reasonable-and-necessary-support-across-the-lifespan-an-ordinary-life-for-people-with-disability/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGhBjlleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHbN8C5VfZcUj35tz-QvOxpBNXPg3E_U9TVzAaNG0Fxqh5OE96I62ZOOa5g_aem_dKHgVk6go_SCbk3Sx8Qufg

    40 min

  6. NOV 7

    S03E04 - A lengthy debate on all things NDIS

    In this week's episode, we have a lengthy debate on all things NDIS OT Unplugged Listener Form If you would like to share anything with us, ask a question or suggest a discussion piece please complete this form! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHZswuTRmhDjRV6fBHKTZ9LuPKNLnEV_EaMI0MS9I-b_kujw/viewform NDIS OT COP Supervisor Register Form- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf99Pi8xuUAwrbdtba4wZ_SWKdE2CkTJMof4WA8hNuN1h-0vw/viewform

    45 min

  7. OCT 30

    S03E03 - The latest on the NDIS commission reform, replacement support items under the transitional rule & upcoming consultation on mandatory registration.

    In this week's episode, we discuss the latest on the NDIS commission reform, replacement support items under the transitional rule and the upcoming consultation on mandatory registration. Early Childhood Intervention: National Guidelines for Best Practice National Guidelines for Best Practice (2nd Edition) Early Childhood Intervention Updated National Best Practice Launch Event Registration" Webinar Registration - Zoom Navigating NDIS Challenges Together As the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) continues to evolve, participants, their families, and professionals are facing challenges that deserve attention. One major concern is the requirement for current diagnostic documentation, especially for older clients and those with autism transitioning into adulthood. For many, the absence of recent assessments creates barriers to accessing necessary support, leading to an uneven playing field where only those with financial means can afford to secure the required reports. There is a clear need for systemic change to find ways to ensure that everyone has fair access to resources and assessments. Frustrating trends are emerging with plan reviews and assessments. Some participants have found their requests for supports denied based on outdated or incomplete information. For example, one family's request for supported independent living (SIL) was declined because a planner misinterpreted a sentence from a psychiatric report. These situations highlight just how important it is for families and practitioners to work together, ensuring the right information is available when decisions are made. Another concern is the misclassification of participants. There have been cases where someone with an acquired brain injury (ABI) has been incorrectly identified as having a psychosocial disability. When these mislabels happen, it can severely impact the supports and funding a participant receives. Given these challenges, it’s crucial for participants and their families to keep thorough records of their diagnoses and assessments. Staying organised and being proactive can help ensure everyone has the right documentation, especially during plan reviews. This is an essential step to protect access to the supports that are truly needed. There are also worrying behaviours among a few practitioners who are trying to cut corners regarding funding for assistive technology and services. Some therapists are approaching different suppliers to get better pricing rather than working through the proper channels. This isn’t the way to do things - maintaining high ethical standards is vital to ensure every participant gets the fair treatment they deserve. Looking ahead, important changes are coming. Particularly with the review of the NDIS practice standards and rules set for March 2025. Now is the time for participants, families, and practitioners to voice their thoughts and advocate for changes that reflect the community’s needs. Early intervention practices are vital, and ongoing learning and advocacy are essential as new guidelines are introduced. The NDIS landscape is shifting, and it’s crucial for everyone – participants, families, and professionals – to engage in open conversations and work together to tackle these complexities. While the road ahead may have its challenges, by collaborating and supporting one another, a fairer and more nurturing environment for all NDIS participants can be created.

    40 min

  8. OCT 24

    S03E02 - Celebrating all the amazing aspects of occupational therapy during OT Week 2024!

    In this week's episode, we celebrate all the amazing aspects of occupational therapy during OT Week 2024! To access the NDIS OT superhero quiz, head to www.verveotlearning.com.au Navigating unlikely spaces and situations as an Occupational Therapist Occupational Therapists (OTs) are known for their ability to adapt and respond to the unique needs of their clients. The field is often filled with surprising and sometimes humorous scenarios that highlight the dynamic nature of our profession. Teleportation, the ultimate wish for efficiency Imagine having the superpower of teleportation. This ability would save precious time – no more long drives between appointments or time spent getting back to the office to get stuck into reports. Instead, OTs could maximise their time with clients, helping them right up until the last minute before dashing off. While it may seem far-fetched, this notion speaks to the daily challenges OTs face as they juggle a busy caseload and multiple responsibilities. The travel funding associated with our work often stretches budgets thin. Reducing travel time could revolutionise our approach to therapy. Tales from the field Humour is a vital part of our profession, as it helps us navigate the more ridiculous moments. One memorable story involves a colleague who had a home visit to a client with 17 cats, resulting in an unforgettable encounter with a Maine Coon that was almost too close for comfort. Such experiences remind us that while we may approach our work with seriousness and dedication, there’s always room for laughter – even amidst the chaos. In another amusing tale, I had my own adventures with a company car while working in the UK. From reversing into a brick wall to accidentally filling up with the wrong fuel, these mishaps led to comical but costly outcomes. Yet, despite the challenges, I earned a certificate for “most expenses,” which I was able to laugh about with my team.   Unlikely places the OT assessment will take us OTs often find themselves in unique locations that push the boundaries of conventional therapy settings. One fascinating story involved a landscape gardener’s worksite assessment at Kirribilli House, a prestigious location in Australia. While we may not encounter famous faces, the experience alone highlights the diverse environments OTs must navigate. In another instance, a colleague faced the daunting task of conducting an assessment in a maximum-security prison. With strict protocols in place and limited resources, the situation required quick thinking and adaptability. This experience underscored the importance of understanding each client’s context, as the conversation turned to meal preparation and creative problem-solving in a confined space. The heart of Occupational Therapy These anecdotes not only provide a glimpse into the lighter side of Occupational Therapy but also remind us of the importance of adaptability, creativity, and a sense of humour. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our profession, let’s embrace these stories and the lessons they bring.

    52 min
See All (40)

About

OT Unplugged is a space for you to connect, reflect and stay up to date on OT practice and the evolving world of the NDIS.

Information

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada