The Centennial Vision

Unfortunately I was unable to attend the 2008 AOTA conference in Long Beach, CA, but I learned of the some of the new things that AOTA is coming up with. Primarily the Centennial Vision which is -

We envision that occupational therapy is a powerful, widely recognized, science-driven, and evidence-based profession with a globally connected and diverse workforce meeting society's occupational needs.

That is a well constructed sentence that sums up the previously posted 10 goals of OTs. I was asked in class to answer how I would fulfill the vision. Well my first step as a student to broaden my knowledge and learn all I can about the theories and evidence on various practice areas. I think it is very important to use and endorse evidence based practice. It makes the practice of OT more professional in the eyes of other professions and the consumers. Also it can help the profession to gain a non-referral status in the health community. Second I will advocate for my profession. I like to do things like point out to my friends that the characters on different television shows would benefit from OT intervention. Also this blog. I want to open the doors of the world to the wonders of occupational therapy. I applaud AOTA, and if I could afford to donate to the AOTPAC I would.

How would you contribute to the centennial vision? (please post how you would)

Be Well and post on my blog!
Tim Dionne
University At Buffalo
BS/MS OT Class 2010

The Potential of OT and What you can do about it!

I apologize for my absence and my lack of posting. I have been very busy with my literature review, but I finished. The literature review was on an issue/topic that discussed the history of the issue, the current situation of that issue, and a recommendation of a feasible plan for the future. My topic was the role of OT in the public, and the lack of public awareness regarding OT. My final conclusions were for every OT to join AOTA and actively participate in its process. Your membership can improve the field, by providing valuable practice information for practitioners, providing vital funding for the OT PAC, and to fund media campaigns for public awareness.

Wouldn't it be nice if "individuals, policy makers, and society as a whole will recognize, value, and promote occupational therapy as the preeminent profession that facilitates safe, independent, and full participation in life through engagement in meaningful occupation, in a broad array of contexts and environments, tailored to meet the needs of individuals, populations, and society" (Kornblau, 2004, p.11).


Well if this were true, OTs would secure a practice area in almost all occupations of life. I believe that occupational therapy can have an impact on everyone in every capacity. I think it has the potential of becoming a household name, as common as the bi-annual dentist check-up. I imagine occupational therapy reshaping the medical field and the medical community. I do not want to encroach on another field's service.
However, I'm a optimist. So for now, I will settle for achieving goals 1-4 on the top ten goals for the future of OT.

Be well! And join AOTA, if you aren't already a member!!
Tim Dionne
University At Buffalo
BS/MS OT class of 2010