tOTal ability

 Frequently Asked Questions about Private and Public Occupational Therapy. 

What is the difference between private and public occupational therapy? 

Public occupational therapy (OT) is funded through Medicare. 

Public OT is available through the Regional Health Authorities in the province of New Brunswick.  Public Occupational Therapists (OTs) may work at local hospitals, the community-based Extra Mural Program and Community Health Centers.   

Should I or my child see both a public and a private occupational therapist? 

You may wish to seek private OT if you or your child are on a waiting list for public OT availability. 

It is very important to let your private OT know that you are waiting for public OT or if you have seen a public OT in the past.  Likewise, when you first see a public OT it is important to let him/her know that you or your child have been seen by a private OT in the past or are seeing one currently.  It is also essential to share any written reports or recommendations with both OTs.  It is very helpful to give consent so the OTs can communicate directly.

Neither public nor private OTs will communicate or share information without your express and written consent. 

Finally, you may wish to have both public and private OTs work with you and your child concurrently.  If so, it is critical for you to communicate who is addressing which occupational therapy issue.  For example, you may wish the Extra Mural OT to see your child at school to address school-based issues with the teacher, while the private OT provides support and intervention for your child for home-based issues.   

Our public OT colleagues advise us that seeing a private OT does not remove you or your child from the waiting list for public OT.