National Advocacy Updates

OT and 988

New changes in mental health have been established nationwide impacting OT practice. On July 16, 2022, calling or texting 988 can help save a life. This 3-digit number supports suicide prevention and mental health nationwide. This bill is not replacing current state programming but is another resource for occupational therapy providers to use.

Review the following infographic to understand the 7 pillars of 988 and how you and integrate this into everyday practice: https://www.aota.org/practice/clinical-topics/988-and-ot

Safer Communities Act

On June 25, 2022, the bipartisan Safer Communities Act was signed into law which has included early and periodic mental health screening and treatment for children 0-21 including OT services as a required service. Review the full bill to see how these changes may impact your practice, specifically individuals working in school settings.

For more information review the following link: https://www.aota.org/advocacy/advocacy-news/2022/bipartisan-safer-communities-act-opportunities.

The advocacy committee is looking for new members to join the advocacy team, this opportunity is for students, providers, and retired OT practitioners, your voice is needed and does make a difference with our profession and clients. To provide additional comments or questions on any of the above state and / or national advocacy action items please contact the MiOTA advocacy committee at: advocacy@miota.org

Medicare OTA Payment Differential

The Medicare OTA payment differential went into effect on January 1, 2022 and many occupational therapy practitioners still have questions regarding what the policy means for OTAs. If your members need more information on this policy and how to apply the modifier, we are available to present to your association via webinar or conference.

Additionally, AOTA has resources that are immediately available. Please feel free to share this recording of the Special OTA Confab: Legislative and Regulatory Changes with your membership. The recording provides both the legislative background of the policy and a detailed discussion of when the modifier should be applied. An article and video can also be found on the AOTA website on how to apply the modifier and an easy to read handout is attached for distribution.

Please click here to view the OTA Modifier Application Handout.