What is occupational therapy?

Holistic support for a healthy, independent lifestyle.

Occupational therapy helps people with injury, illness or disability live full and independent lives. It is an evidence-based practice that combines scientific research with therapists’ clinical skills to help patients with health challenges live their lives to the fullest.


How occupational therapy works

An occupational therapist takes a holistic approach to adapt a patient’s environment and tasks to their lifestyle, which may help increase their independence and improve their quality of life. The practice emphasizes helping patients to safely and effectively perform daily tasks at home, school and work.

Benefits of occupational therapy

If an illness, injury, disease or disability make it difficult to do the things you want or need to do, occupational therapy may help. An occupational therapist can design a program for your needs and use self-care, work and recreational activities to promote and maintain your health.

Occupational therapy services can include:

  • Reteaching self-care skills, like getting dressed, eating and drinking.
  • Adjusting home, work and other environments to improve function and productivity.
  • Recommending equipment, such as a wheelchair, and advising use.
  • Encouraging socialization and school participation skills for children with disabilities.
  • Providing education for family members and caregivers.
  • Providing support for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive (memory) issues.

An occupational therapist can help you confidently achieve your goals and determine the strategies that could work best for you and your lifestyle.

What you should know before accessing care

Occupational therapy is a covered benefit for Sharp Health Plan members when medically necessary, and will be periodically reviewed to determine if continued therapy is needed. To access care, you will need a referral from your primary care physician (PCP) to an in-network occupational therapist.

Log in to your Sharp Health Plan online account to view plan details

To see what’s covered under your plan, please log in to your online account or download a copy of your Member Handbook online.