OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY BENEFIT OF STATE EMPLOYEES GROUP HEALTH PLAN:

A Legislative Achievement for Florida Occupational Therapists.

June 10, 2017

TALLAHASSEE – After more than 20 years of advocacy, State of Florida employees now can access occupational therapy services through the state group health insurance plan. The Florida Occupational Therapy Association (FOTA) led the efforts to include the added benefit for state employees in the 2017 General Appropriations Act passed by the Florida Legislature and signed by Gov. Rick Scott.

The addition of occupational therapy as a covered benefit for state employees is considered a huge success by FOTA.  State employees will be able to access occupational therapy services at the same level as they currently have for physical therapy. State employees have historically been unable to access occupational therapy services, as it was not a covered benefit unless the patient was diagnosed with a developmental disability. 

FOTA is thrilled to share this achievement and thanks Senator Denise Grimsley and Representative MaryLynn Magar, who each led the initiative in their respective chambers.

Occupational therapy services are shown to provide significant cost savings and health improvements by reducing hospital readmission rates, hospital length of stay and providing enhanced value to integrated care delivery teams. There are almost 16,000 occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants throughout Florida. 

FOTA is celebrating 40 years of leading and advocating for occupational therapy in Florida.

This achievement was realized with the coordinated efforts of Corcoran & Johnston, FOTA's lobbyist firm. Our advocacy can only continue with member support. www.flota.org to join or renew. Be part of your state professional organization. Help sustain the career you love.