Occupational therapists (OTs) work with people who have injuries, illnesses and disabilities to help them live as independently as possible by achieving, maintaining and improving their quality of life.
They work with people of all ages and backgrounds and are employed by hospitals, local authority social and community services or in the private sector. OTs provide assessment and treatment of physical, psychosocial and cognitive dysfunctions to enable patients to maximise their functional abilities and quality of life in their own home, place of work or school. OTs work with people to design a programme of treatment based on the individual’s lifestyle, environment and preferences.
If you are a patient of Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust and you see an occupational therapist, your OT will undertake a full assessment of your needs and abilities before you are discharged from hospital. This may be done in hospital, in the community, or in your home.
Your OT can work with you on a number of issues, which may include:
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rehabilitation - this could include re-learning skills or adapting tasks depending on your needs and abilities,
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planning for discharge - this could include making recommendations for equipment or adaptations to your home to help you be more independent and safe, and to help your carer care for you more effectively,
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advice and information - this could include providing advice and information on managing your disability, illness or injury.
What happens when I get home?
Depending on your circumstances, your OT may see you for a short time after you have been discharged, either at home or in an outpatient clinic. In some circumstances, it may be more appropriate to refer you to a community occupational therapist in your local area. The provision of equipment and adaptations to your home is carried out by your local social services and depends on your needs and abilities. Your OT will discuss this with you in more detail before you go home.
Occupational therapy covers treatment including:
Advice and information
Managing your disability, illness or injury, including how to:
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go about your daily tasks,
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conserve your energy and look after your joints,
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return to work.
Your OT will plan a programme of treatment based on your specific needs and abilities. This can include special equipment or adaptations to your home if necessary.
Where is the service provided?
Our acute inpatient and outpatient service and the rheumatology inpatient service is at Barts and the London Trust.
The rheumatology outpatient service, the acute inpatient/outpatient service and children's services are at Mile End Hospital.
How to get an appointment
Referrals for the acute outpatient are are taken from GPs and Barts and the London Trust consultants, for hand and upper limb rehabilitation, provision of orthoses, scar management and assessment/ treatment of daily living activities.
Referrals for the wheelchair service are made by medical, nursing or allied professionals using the standard wheelchair service referral form. A GP direct access service operates at The Royal London and Mile End Hospitals.
Contact us
For further information, please contact us.
