Hello MiOTA members,

Thank you for your membership! Your ongoing support of the association allows us to continue to

support efforts to protect and promote occupational therapy in the state of Michigan. As you know, we

have made great strides to support the interstate compact act to facilitate licensure across the state

lines with other states in the compact. The progress we made to support the status of these house bills

has required an enormous amount of effort and hours from your association volunteers. This is

especially important for many licensees where companies cross state lines, or a person is moving to a

new state or even a military spouse moving due to a relocation. A big thank you to our Advocacy

Committee led by Denise Hoffman and our lobbyist Bret Marr. Also thank you to all of you who

connected with your local representative encouraging support of the bills.

Also, a bit about membership! Look for invites to our “social” events and educational webinars. These

events are opportunities for each of you to invite a non-member occupational therapy practitioner to

participate so that they can experience our association. Remember if the guest joins within 24 hours of

the event they get a 25% discount on their inaugural membership.

As you review the Membership Report, you will see our membership numbers continue to be strong.

However, we have opportunity as a good number of our membership comes from students versus

practitioners in the state. I thank the faculty who support student engagement through membership. A

very small percentage of our practicing occupational therapy practitioners are members of MiOTA. As a

member speak to your colleagues about membership and invite them to a webinar or chapter meeting

so they can see the value of membership.

Thank you,

Sincerely,

Cathleen Johnson, OTD, OTRL, FMiOTA, FNAP

Leader of the Executive Committee and Co-Director for Membership

Please consider joining the WMU OT department at the annual Barbara Rider Colloquium on Friday, November 1, 2024, hosted at the WMU College of Health and Human Services. This year's theme is "Empowering Veterans: Bridging Paths Through Occupational Therapy". The day-long event will feature insightful presentations on clinical practice and research, a Veteran’s panel presentation, multiple breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.

Event Details:

Date: November 1, 2024, from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Location: WMU College of Health and Human Services

General admission : $80*

*Veterans and military service members are invited to attend for free; discounted rate available for students, WMU fieldwork educators, and WMU capstone mentors

Contact hours: up to 6 for full attendance

See the attached flyer for highlights or check out the website to register and view the full schedule! Opportunities for exhibitors are available. Please contact Alissa Baker (Alissa.baker@wmich.edu) with any questions.

Harrison DiCocco, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/L)

Harrison DiCocco is a compassionate Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/L) specializing in cardiac and neuro conditions at Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI.

Graduating from Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) in 2023 with a degree in Occupational Therapy Assistance, Harrison is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Inspired by his grandmother, Harrison pursued a career in occupational therapy to help others achieve their fullest potential.

When he is not at the hospital, Harrison enjoys soaking up the sun at the beach or spending quality time with his beautiful fiancée. Their shared love for adventure and relaxation adds balance to Harrison's busy schedule.

As an OTA Intern, Harrison shared a case study and the importance of implementing accommodations for student success at the MiOTA Work & Industry Special Interest Study Section in March, 2023.

Harrison has always been involved with giving back to the community and shining the spotlight on Occupational Therapy. As a student he was an active member of the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA). He says, It’s all about giving back, our (SOTA’s) goals are to spread awareness about occupational therapy as a profession and make an impact in our community.

Harrison brings his experience as a contributor to his College’s newspaper to MiOTA. He volunteers as the social media coordinator for the MiOTA and is on the membership and activation committee. He values MiOTA for its commitment to providing valuable resources and support to occupational therapy practitioners across Michigan.
With his dedication to his patients, and his passion for OT advocacy, Harrison is on a mission to
create positive change and empower others to live their best lives.

If you would like to be highlighted or would like to nominate a MiOTA member, please email us at website@miota.org. (Attn: Renuka ‘Ray’ Roche)

The fall conference is just around the corner!!

We are hoping you all plan to join us at Boyne. Mountain Resort on October 18-20, 2024. The conference sessions will be held in the “Civic Center”. The keynote speaker is Paul Artale who is a successful individual who is familiar with Occupational Therapy from his personal needs to those of his family. Moreover, the event will

offer a variety of sessions which include pain and diversity sessions on each day of the

conference. The conference will offer opportunities to network with peers from SIS – special

interest section meetings to alumni events to the awards ceremony and welcome reception. The

Boyne Resort has a plethora of activities available. Attached to the hotel is a water park. On the

grounds of the resort is a variety of restaurants and the Sky Bridge. We know this event will be

worth your time personally and professionally.

The 2024 annual fall conference will be held at beautiful Boyne Mountain Resort October 18 to October 20, 2024. Our Keynote presenter will be Paul Artale. Discounted room rates will be available for a two-night minimum. We received a great response for the call for papers. Thank you to all who submitted presentations this year. All accepted presenters have been notified. We are always interested in having new or returning exhibitors at conference. Let us know of companies that you would us to invite to exhibit this year at Boyne Mountain Resort. Companies can also find information regarding being an exhibitor by visiting the MiOTA website.

For any questions, feel free to contact the conference planning committee at: conference@miota.org.

POP UP SHOP!

Show Your Michigan Occupational Therapy Pride!

Get ready to gear up!

Our exclusive Pop Up Store is open from October 14 to October 27, featuring shirts, comfy crew necks, and eco-friendly tote bags, all showcasing the Michigan Occupational Therapy brand! Whether you're looking to sport your OT pride or find the perfect gift, we’ve got you covered.

All items will be shipped out on **November 11**, so don’t miss your chance to snag these limited-edition pieces.

Shop with us and bring a piece of Michigan Occupational Therapy home!

Clair-Marie Gray, OTD-R

Merchandising Coordinator

Seeking delegate and alternative delegate for the Special Education Advisory Committee through the Michigan Board of Education. MiOTA has been a valued member of this committee and we recognize Karen Tibbs, and Robin Pegg in their roles as delegate and alternative delegate respectively.

This opportunity provides occupational therapy to have a voice with the Michigan Board of Education while also focusing on serving the consumers of special education and occupational therapy.

Please contact Cathleen Johnson, Leader of the Executive Committee for the application via email at director@miota.org. If you have questions about the roles please contact either Karen Tibbs at mati.ktibbs@gmail.com or Robin Pegg at administration@miota.org

This is a great way to support MiOTA, the profession, and the students in need of special education.

SIS groups provide opportunities for MIOTA members to come together for discussion on areas of practice. The following SIS groups are looking for someone to lead or co-lead the sessions. Groups meet at least annually, but can meet as often as possible.

Geriatrics

Mental Health

Telehealth Reimbursement

Diversity

Rehabilitation

Groups meet at least annually at the annual conference in the fall, but can meet as often as they'd like to. SIS groups fall under the leadership of the Communications Director and must be members of MIOTA. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Holly Grieves at website@miota.org or Robin Pegg at administrator@miota.org.

Hey MiOTA members,

We are seeking chapter leaders for Flint, Lansing, Northwest, and Western chapters. A chapter leader

supports a “regular” meeting of the members of the chapter. Chapters can meet live or via a webinar.

Many chapters use the meeting to talk about clinical practice. Sometimes a chapter will have a guest

speaker. Professional Development Units (PDU) are provided to participants. The chapter leader is

responsible for emailing participants an invitation, securing a speaker or identifying a topic of discussion, track attendance, and submit attendance to the MiOTA office so that participants can receive a PDU certificate.

Please consider taking on this leadership opportunity. If you have a colleague who would like to share co-leadership that is an option as well.

Robin Pegg administrator@miota.org or Holly Grieves website@miota.org if you are interested.

MIOTA is looking for someone to scan and upload past paper documents to the MIOTA Google Shared Drive, please contact Cindy Klinger an finance@miota.org if you have the skill and are interested in volunteering.

Jessie Fredell, COTAL and Katrina Carrigan, OTRL become co-leaders of the Northwest Chapter.

Meet Jessie:

Jessie Fredell COTA/L has worked her entire career since 2011 with the geriatric

population in the Northwest Michigan region between the skilled nursing facility setting and home care setting. She has been in the home care setting for the majority of her career and takes pride in being able to assist local residents in overcoming challenges whether temporary or chronic within their own environment. In her free time, Jessie enjoys spending time with friends and family. She is married, they have a dog and enjoy riding the trails in their Jeep, kayaking down the river, and going on camping trips. Jessie attended her first MIOTA conference in 2021 and is looking forward to serving the Northwest Chapter with co-leader Katrina Carrigan, MS OTRL.

Meet Katrina:

Katrina started her career in occupational therapy as a COTA in 2011, then progressed to getting her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Saginaw Valley State University in 2019. Katrina has spent 12 years of her career working with the geriatric population in skilled nursing facilities. After graduating with her Masters, she accepted the role as director of rehab in a skilled nursing facility which she held for three years. Since February of 2023, she has been working with the geriatric population in the home health care setting within Northern Michigan.Outside of work, Katrina has been married for 16 years and has 2 children, ages 11 and 14. She enjoys

traveling with her family and spending time crafting. Katrina first became a member of MIOTA in 2018 and is looking forward to serving the Northwest Chapter as co-leader.

Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists

Dr. Barry Lesnick, of West Bloomfield, is an optometrist at the Belleville Vision Center. Dr. Lesnick earned a Doctor of Optometry at the Illinois College of Optometry and holds a controlled substance license and a license in optometry. Dr. Barry Lesnick is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2025. Dr. Barry Lesnick succeeds David Oh whose term has expired.

The Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to promulgate rules for licensing occupational therapists and ascertaining minimal entry level competency of occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants. The Public Health Code mandates certain responsibilities and duties for a health professional licensing board. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the Board to promote and protect the public's health, safety, and welfare.

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) strives to keep your licensing and personal information safe.

It’s important to understand how and when LARA communicates with you. To help you determine when a contact is officially from LARA and steps you can take to reduce the risk of falling for a scam, please keep in mind the following:

• Official, mailed communications from LARA will be on LARA letterhead. Official, emailed communications will typically come from the “@michigan.gov” domain.
  
  
• If you are concerned that a communication (including a phone call or text) is not from a LARA official, you may request verification by contacting LARA by a means listed on https://www.michigan.gov/lara/about/contact-us.
  
  
• Be suspicious of communications indicating that you must take immediate action to provide payment or other sensitive information to avoid license suspensions or other official actions by LARA. When in doubt, verify the communication.
  
  
• Authorized credit-card transactions are only accepted online and through a payment portal or database linked from a State of Michigan website. Do not give your credit-card or other financial information to anyone over the phone, through email or mail, via text message, or by any other means.Authorized payment by check should only be made out to the State of Michigan and mailed to an official State of Michigan address that can be verified online at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/about/contact-us. Do not make out a check to an individual or entity other than the State of Michigan.
  
  
• Authorized cash payments can be made by appointment at LARA’s official cashier’s location at 2407 North Grand River Ave, Lansing, MI 48906. Customers can make appointments by clicking the appropriate links: Corporation, Securities, and Commercial Licensing or other LARA customers. Cash payments should never be made in person outside an official cashier’s location, and it is not recommended to send cash by mail—even if it is to an official LARA address.
  
  
• Be cautious of any unsolicited requests for any personal information.
  
  
• Be suspicious of any unexpected emails or links to websites. If your personal information is compromised, it may be used in other fraud schemes.
  
  
• Do not respond to or open hyperlinks in unverified emails or text messages requesting to validate your personal data.
  
  
• Do not share your licensing, personal, or financial information over the telephone, email, or via text message with an alleged representative of LARA without first verifying the authenticity of the communication.
  
  
• If you suspect fraud, report it immediately to LARA-Transparency-Liaison@Michigan.gov.

Should you have specific questions regarding this email communication or would like to report a possible scam related to LARA, please contact us at LARA-Transparency-Liaison@Michigan.gov or 517-335-9700.

If you would like to learn more about recognizing and protecting yourself from a scam, please visit the Michigan Department of Attorney General Consumer Protection at https://www.michigan.gov/consumerprotection/scams.

1. Occupational Therapist Volunteers are needed! The Michigan Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) OT Board is looking for an Occupational Therapist with experience in behavioral health, specifically substance abuse and recovery, to serve on LARA’s Health Professional Recovery Program (HPRP). HPRP was established by the Legislature over twenty years ago as part of a disciplinary reform effort. The HPRP is a confidential, non-disciplinary program designed to assist licensed or registered health professionals recover from substance abuse/chemical dependency problems or a mental health problem. More information about the HPRP can be found here: https://hprp.org/. Contact Bethany Burge, MiOTA’s Liaison to the OT Board at office@miota.org

2. NEW Certification Renewal Activity through NBCOT: Competency Assessment Units (CAUs) The May 15, 2024 Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists meeting included a presentation from NBCOT representatives. Visit https://www.nbcot.org/ for more information about the new NBCOT Navigator. The digital platform offers skill competency assessments for various practice related domains and up to 36 licensure renewal credits for at no additional cost to certified OTRs and COTAs registered with NBCOT.

3. Michigan is one step closer to joining the national Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact! The OT Board is monitoring the progress of the OT Licensure Compact Act as it moves through the State Legislature. Two bills have favorably passed the Michigan House of Representatives and is under review of the Health Policy Committee within the State Senate. Keep an eye out for a Call to Action from the MiOTA Advocacy Chair in this newsletter and upcoming email announcements to support this effort!

4. The next OT Board meeting is scheduled for August 13, 2024 at 10:00 AM. Good news! The OT Board meetings are open to the public in-person, and now, via Zoom! The meeting link is included within each OT Board meeting’s agenda which are posted here: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bpl/health/hp-lic-health-prof/ot/board/occupational-therapy-board-meeting-agendas-and-minutes

5. Do you have regulatory questions related to how to obtain or maintain your OTR or OTA license in Michigan? Contact Bethany Burge, MiOTA Liaison to LARA’s OT Board at office@miota.org

Stay safe, be well, & have a good day,

Bethany Burge, MS, OTR/L, CNP, CAPS

A Message from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Financial and Insurance Services:

Dear Health Care Provider,

Nationwide, Medicaid beneficiaries will once again have to renew their coverage starting this year to comply with federal legislation. In Michigan, annual eligibility renewals will begin in June 2023. It is important that you are aware of this federally required process because it has the risk of leaving some of your patients without health insurance.

As a health care provider, you can play a role in helping your patients stay informed and covered, and we are asking for your help. If you have Medicaid beneficiaries as patients, please consider asking them to do the following:

• Make sure their address, phone number and email address are up to date at Michigan.gov/MIBridges. They can also call their local MDHHS office. If they do not have an online account for MI Bridges to access their Medicaid case or report changes, they can sign up for an account. They can also locate organizations that can provide local help by searching for community partners.
• Report any changes to their household or income by visiting Michigan.gov/MIBridges or by calling their local MDHHS office.
• If they receive a renewal packet, make sure to fill it out, sign the forms, and return it by the due date with any proof requested. If they do not complete and return the renewal, they may lose Medicaid coverage even if they are otherwise eligible.

If one of your patients receives notice that a member of their household is no longer eligible for Medicaid or MIChild benefits, it is important that they know they have options for alternative health insurance, including no and low-cost coverage, and they should take quick action to avoid a lapse in coverage. For more information about options, including purchasing a low- or -no-cost health plan on the Health Insurance Marketplace, they can visit Michigan.gov/StayCovered. To help you communicate with your patients, a toolkit is available online that includes a flyer, sample newsletter articles, and more.

For patients with questions about purchasing a health plan on HealthCare.gov, they can visit Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance, or call the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) at 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information about changes to food assistance and Medicaid benefits connected to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency can be found at Michigan.gov/2023BenefitChanges.

As a health care provider, you know that having health insurance is critical, not just for when people are sick or hurt, but also to help them stay healthy and afford the care they need. Thank you for taking these steps to make sure your patients are aware of the actions they need to take to stay covered so they can protect themselves and their families.

The 2020 Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics (the Code) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is designed to reflect the dynamic nature of the occupational therapy profession, the evolving healthcare environment, and emerging technologies that can present potential ethical concerns in practice, research, education, and policy. The Code sets forth Core Values and outlines Standards of Conduct the public can expect from those in the profession.

The Ethics Commission (EC) is beginning the 5-year review process of the 2020 Code of Ethics. The revision will focus on the language around the Standards of Conduct to ensure they reflect the needs of the occupational therapy profession and promote inclusive and equitable guidelines.

Your Input is Critical

This is an opportunity for members to provide input on the AOTA 2020 Code of Ethics before revisions are submitted and adopted by the Representative Assembly. We appreciate you taking the time to provide targeted feedback on this survey to support the Code of Ethics revision process.

Deadline for feedback: October 16, 2024, 11:59 pm, ET

Thank you to all of those who attended the Diversity & Black OT Caucus Special Interest Section meeting during the MiOTA Fall Conference this year!

If you’re interested in joining this SIS please take a moment to take a quick survey and share your availability to meet: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/98JMXCN (Or scan the QR Code below).

A Persistent Epidemic of Exclusion

July 21 was #ZeroHIVStigmaDay. A collective of international agencies created the day to

commemorate Prudence Mabele (1971-2017). She was the first South African woman to advocate by speaking out about her HIV-AIDS diagnosis. HIV-AIDS is stigmatized and people who are coping with the disease are marginalized. In addition to the stigma, many are also coping with co-morbidities and unstable daily living circumstances. People who perceive a high level of stigma are 2.4 times more likely to delay care until they are very ill. With developments in modern antiretroviral therapy (ART), if those who are HIV positive take medication, as prescribed, and viral loads are undetectable for six months or more, they will not transmit the disease to their partners.

(https://www.iapac.org/2022/07/21/zerohivstigmaday/) However, efforts to end the epidemic have not succeeded in reaching targeted goals.

Worldwide 37.9 million people are living with HIV. There has been a significant decrease in mortality

and a small decrease in incidence due to scale up of HIV treatments. In the U.S., HIV impacts men

having sex with men and Black /African American communities disproportionately. At a higher rate

than the general population, persons living with HIV (PLWH) experience mood disorders, anxiety,

drug use, unhealthy alcohol use, and poorer quality of life. It is estimated that 63% of PLWH have a

co-occurring mental health condition, compared to 31% of those without HIV. These conditions lead

to lower engagement in HIV care and treatment, poorer health outcomes, including low viral load

suppression and mortality (O’Grady et al., p 202). Based on a 2024 systematic review, there is an

association between social determinants of health and depression in PLWH. Those with lower income levels, transactional sex, housing instability, long-term survivor status, low social support, poor educational attainment and food insecurity also had comorbidities of substance use, violence and other traumatic experiences. Substance use co-occurs with mental illness, which contributes to

decreased viral suppression, increased hospitalization, and decreased quality of life. Trauma

informed interventions were shown to be effective in improving ART adherence and health outcomes

for adverse childhood experiences. (O’Grady et. al, p. 222)

Zimbabwean occupational therapists performed a scoping review of how occupational justice and

social inclusion were related to the highly stigmatized chronic conditions of HIV and mental illness.

Studies had only been conducted in high-income countries focused on mental illness. Using a social

justice framework, treating people with HIV and those with mental illness in a more respectful and

equitable manner needs emphasis. They contend that research and practice be directed towards “a

moral imperative of addressing exclusions and injustices experienced by people living with HIV, those with mental illness and other stigmatized groups” (Nhunzvi et al, p.150). To promote equitable access for marginalized groups to opportunities for community participation with fairness, interventions will include a continuum of care and health and well being beyond viral suppression in HIV.

Kielhofner et al. conducted a study in Chicago in 2008 at four PLWH supportive living facilities.

Supportive housing addresses the needs of PLWH, who are more likely to have comorbid mental

illness, substance abuse problems, and are socioeconomically disadvantaged. Researchers used the

Enabling Self Determination (ESD) model program to enable the participants to achieve productive

participation, which included working, attending school or training programs, or volunteering. During 8

week group sessions, participants examined their own volition, lifestyle and skills, reflected on

occupational narratives they were living or wished to achieve, and began to identify personal goals to

enhance productivity. The process also used peer mentors who had successfully made the transition

to employment or living on their own. The control groups received standard care of educational

groups, referrals to community resources and received written materials. The effectiveness of the

intervention was demonstrated using data collected at 3, 6 and 9 months. More than 72% of the

clients who participated in the ESD program had productive outcomes.

To address the racial disparities in HIV care outcomes, researchers at Vanderbilt partnered with

Street Works in Nashville on a community project to enlist Black barbers from central Tennessee.

Tennessee has the lowest linkage to HIV care rates in the country, with only 64% of newly infected

patients establishing care. This is below the national targets for viral suppression. Young black men

comprise the majority of new HIV infections in Tennessee, but remain hidden from care. Because

black barbers and barbershops are regarded as confidants in trusted environments, they have been

successfully used to disseminate health education and treatment interventions for a variety of chronic health conditions. The recruited barbers attended a half-day, live, virtual workshop about basic HIV education, an assessment of HIV related knowledge and stigma among barbers, with a facilitated discussion about the potential roles of barbers and barbershops to improve the HIV outcomes for Black men. The focus groups identified cost and concern about poor treatment and /or negative interactions experienced within the health care system as an obstacle to access. They identified deeply rooted HIV stigma,. entrenched beliefs, concern about ability to cope with unwanted illness, and depression as obstacles to seeking care. Ways to address stigma and barriers were training barbers, providing conversation-promoting HIV related materials, and helping people to navigate key steps to establish care. The barbers suggested a need to positively reframe the HIV care message.

Articles Referenced:

Kielhofner, G., Braveman, B., Fogg L, Levin, M. (2008) A controlled study of services to enhance

productive participation among people with HIV/AIDS, The American Journal of Occupational

Therapy, 62:1, 36-45.

Nhunzvi, Clement et al. (2020) Occupational justice and social inclusion among people living with

HIV and people with mental illness: a scoping review. BMJ Open,

10:e036916.doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2020-036916.

Nwakoby, C. et al (2023) Establishing an academic-community partnership to explore the potential of

barbers and barbershops in the southern united states to address racial disparities in HIV care

outcomes for black men living with HIV, American Journal of Men’s Health, January-February

1-11

doi:10.1177/15579883231152114.

O’Grady, Thomas et al. (2024) The characteristics and HIV-related outcomes of people living with

co-occurring HIV and mental health conditions in the united states: a systematic review of

literature from 2016 to 2021. Aids and Behavior, 28, 201-224.

As a profession with origins in mental health treatments and as a qualified mental health

provider, occupational therapy has tools and a scope of practice to raise awareness,

screen clients, recognize mental health issues and address them at many levels.

In 2020, the second leading cause of death for US children age 10 to 14 was suicide. 70%

of youth in juvenile detention centers were diagnosed with a mental health disorder. The

state of Michigan ranked 35 th nationally for prevention and access to mental health care

for youth. Occupational therapists can play a role in improving these outcomes.

Arbesman, Bazuk and Nochajski conducted a systematic review of mental health

interventions for youth (ages 3 to 21) in 2013. Included interventions from 2003-2012

included some not delivered by occupational therapy. Using a public health model, the

authors found that interventions including peer and social interaction, teaching

compliance with adult directives, social rules and norms, and requiring participation in

productive or task focused behavior resulted in children being more likely to successfully

participate in school, home and community activities. In the public health Tier 1,

targeting a universal, whole population, OTs can focus on wellness and health promotion

through after school programs to develop social skills or facilitate an anti-bullying

program, including parent education, improved playground supervision and classroom

management techniques. Other areas of health promotion include stress management,

health literacy, prevention of back injury and childhood obesity as well as yoga. In Tier 2,

focus is on prevention or reduction of incidences and seriousness of problem behaviors

for those children who are at risk for behavioral issues. The potential clients include

children with learning disabilities, ADHD, intellectual impairments or developmental

delays and teenage mothers. Social and life skills programs that improve life skills,

practice conversation turn taking, initiation of social interaction, and self-management

help to decrease problem behaviors. Mother infant interactions are improved through

development of parental attitudes and knowledge, and working on mealtime

communication. Using play, leisure and recreation, play groups for abused and neglected

children improve play skills, self-esteem, positive feelings and reduce solitary play. In

Tier 3, OTs may focus on children with mental illness, ASD, or severe behavior

disorders. Teaching self-management strategies and social behavior can lead to greater

social competence. Friendship skill groups improve social interaction and reduce

difficulties. Using video modeling improves children with SMI peer interaction and on-

task behavior. Music related activities improve non-verbal and verbal communication

skills. The systematic review shows the importance of social interventions for promoting

and sustaining mental health in youth. The relationship of mental health promotion and

socialization is supported and carried forward in a recent report issued by the Office of

the Surgeon General.

The 2023 report, The Epidemic of Social Isolation and Loneliness: The U.S. General’s

Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connectedness and Community, calls for

“immediate awareness and action”. In 2016, only 30% of Americans reported that they

could reliably trust others, down from 45% in 1972. The average time spent alone has

increased to 24 hours per month. As of 2020, the amount of time 15-24 year olds spend

with friends in person has decreased 70% over 20 years. Those at greatest risk include

those with poor physical or mental health, disabilities, financial insecurity, living alone,

single parents, younger and older populations, and those living in rural areas. Social

isolation and loneliness increases the risk for depression and anxiety, and social isolation

is the strongest and most reliable predictor of suicide ideation, attempts, and lethal

suicide behaviors. In contrast, connectedness has positive influences on health indicators

like blood pressure, cardiovascular reactivity, and oxidative stress. Strong perceptions of

community belonging and social cohesion lead to improved health. The Surgeon

General’s office calls for a national strategy to strengthen social infrastructure in local

communities, enact pro-connection public policies, mobilize the health sector, reform

digital environments, and deepen our awareness and knowledge of the importance of

social connection as a health and well being priority. Occupational therapists can screen

and assess for social support and loneliness and address these issues individually with

clients, finding ways to strengthen existing supports and new ways to connect with

others. OT practitioners can help to design physical and social settings in the community,

which are inclusive, accessible to all, and structured to facilitate interaction well.

Thinking about digital connections, occupational therapy professionals can help

implement adaptive technology, train clients on use, and become knowledgeable of

software and hardware that promote connection to introduce and try with clients. As a

profession, occupational therapy practitioners can advocate with lawmakers and power

brokers to minimize harm from disconnection and promote community ties. In practice

and training, they can research and gather evidence of the importance of social

connection and belonging to improve and sustain health and well-being. Developing

innovative, effective interventions can further demonstrate how important they are as

contributing factors to mental health.

Arbesman, M., Bazyk, S., & Nochajski, S. (2013). Systematic review of occupational therapy

and mental health promotion, prevention and intervention for children and

youth. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 67:6, p. 120-130.

Office of the Surgeon General of the United States (2023) Our Epidemic of Loneliness and

Isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social

Connection and Community.

https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf

If you are interested in reading the full articles or report, please contact me at

kgarvey2011@gmail.com to request a copy.

OTA: Elizabeth (Eva) Anderson, Grand Rapids Community College

Eva Anderson (she/her) is an Occupational Therapy Assistant student at Grand Rapids Community College with plans to graduate in 2024. She served as the 2023 President of the GRCC Chapter of the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) which enabled her to serve not only the organization and members, but also the local community through a variety of community outreach projects. In addition, she was able to initiate and lead her cohort to receive GRCC’s first ever award for 100% Academic Program MiOTA Membership at last year's MiOTA conference, where she volunteered as a Student Ambassador.

She hopes to center her OTA career in the pediatric field and has a special interest in finding creative ways to successfully integrate retained primitive reflexes to help kids become as successful as possible as they live, learn, and play. Motivated by her experience and interest in mental healthcare, she has also developed a passion for promoting the integration of trauma-informed care practices into all care as a means to more effectively support every individual, even those who are not yet ready or able to openly acknowledge their experiences.

Eva would like to express to her immense gratitude for being awarded the 2024 OTA Student Scholarship and to encourage other students and new grads to get involved early and experience first-hand the welcoming educational and professional space that MiOTA is, regardless of specialty or experience. She can't wait to meet you at the next conference!

OT:

Kallen Wolfer - Western Michigan University

Bio: Kallen Wolfer is a second year OTD student at Western Michigan University- Grand Rapids. She graduated from the University of Michigan in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Movement Science. During her gap year between her undergraduate and graduate program, she was a paraprofessional at Empower U, a transition school for adults aged 18-26 with developmental disabilities. During that time, she fostered a love and appreciation for her students and occupational therapy. She will be returning to Empower U for her Capstone Project and Experience, focusing on increasing student engagement in health promoting behaviors. She is currently undecided on what population/setting she would like to work with. Rather, she wants to explore the multitudinous opportunities OT has to offer during her level II fieldworks and as a new graduate.

Kallen was the event coordinator on her SOTA board and organized events that helped support the Grand Rapids community with her fellow OT students. She additionally was a MIOTA student ambassador at the 2024 MIOTA fall conference where she learned a great deal about our incredible profession. She immensely enjoyed returning to Mackinac Island for the conference where she used to be a Mackinac Island Honor Scout. When she is not in school, she can be found working as a barista at her hometown coffee shop, working as a student assistant for the WMU OT faculty, swimming and playing water polo, and most importantly, walking her 11 year old corgi, Zeus.

Kallen is deeply grateful and honored to be selected for this scholarship and looks forward to supporting MIOTA's endeavors in the future.

THANK YOU to the MiOTA Student Scholarship Committee:

Sara Clark, Chair

Mary Ellen East

Kim Pace

Angie Smith

MCCN is a networking community for all MiOTA student members to share any information, stories, or impactful situations that you have recently experienced that you think would benefit the occupational therapy student community’s growth toward continuous learning.

The MCCN allows a student to share any information from a personal or professional experience, or simply any material that is based within the occupational therapy profession – including any intervention approaches that you have recently identified, an assessment that would benefit a specific population or diagnosis if implemented, or new, evidence-based research that an OT student could integrate into their fieldwork practice.

MiOTA appreciates any expertise, recognition, or awareness that our members could share with the occupational therapy community. Below is a further list of ideas that could be included in the MCCN, featured in a MiOTA newsletter and on the website!

• Lightbulb moments – a particular realization or something you know now that you wish you would have known before entering the profession or fieldwork, or as a student transitioning into the new grad status

• Any way that you have created some structure/method to navigate the occupational therapy process more easily, and how you implement that method into your practice

• Level I, Level II fieldwork experiences, including preparation advice, what assessments and interventions strategies that you used in your specific fieldwork setting, etc.

• NBCOT study tips/resources

• OT program survival tips

• AE recommendations - where to buy, in what setting(s) would you recommend AE to a client?

• Continuing education opportunities!

• Discount resources – websites to find discounted OT textbooks, adaptive equipment, OT gear, etc.

• OT groups to join – associations, study groups, podcasts, etc.

• New evidence-based practice, new research within OT that an OT student could apply within their fieldwork setting

• Book suggestions outside of textbooks – novels, memoirs, etc. that could help a student see from an individual’s perspective within a specific clinical diagnosis/condition

If you have any questions or you would like your post to be featured on the MCCN and to our MiOTA members, please email Cydne Johnson at cydne.c.johnson@wmich.edu.

Dear pediatric provider/future provider:

My name is Gabrielle Jones, and I am Occupational Therapy Doctorate student from Western

Michigan University. I am conducting a research study to better understand the current

knowledge, role, and confidence of pediatric providers (primary care pediatricians, OT, SLP,

BCBA) and respective pre-professional students, regarding utilization of the updated CDC

developmental milestones and developmental surveillance.

This is an anonymous electronic survey, that will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. To

be eligible you must have access to internet in order to complete the electronic survey.

Eligibility Criteria - Professional Practitioners:

 Self-identify as having a current license to practice in the state of Michigan

 Engage in at least one of the following within the last 6 months in relation to a child’s

development from ages birth to 6 years old:

o Developmental surveillance, Developmental screening, Diagnosis, Evaluation for

treatment (including creation of treatment plan), Treatment provision, Patient

education, Referrals, Follow-up

Eligibility Criteria – Students:

 Currently enrolled at Western Michigan University in one of the following programs:

o Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Pathology, or Applied Behavior

Analysis/BCBA

Exclusion Criteria – Students:

 First year students

If you are interested, I have attached the anonymous survey consent form to this email with the

link to the survey. No names or emails will be collected when completing the survey. There is no

compensation for participating, although participants may contribute to a growing research base

in developmental surveillance with the potential to inform future clinical practice and training in

developmental surveillance and utilization of the CDC developmental milestones.

If you have any questions, please contact Gabrielle Jones (student investigator) or Dr. Michelle

Suarez (primary investigator).

Gabrielle Jones – gabrielle.a.jones@wmich.edu

Dr. Michelle Suarez – michelle.a.suarez@wmich.edu

Hello!

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Cameron, and I am reaching out to you on behalf of the members of Occupational Therapists for Environmental Action. We are currently conducting a research study on occupational therapy educators’ role in addressing environmental sustainability and climate change in education and practice, and we believe that your unique perspective and experiences would make a valuable contribution to our work.

The primary objectives of this research are:

1. To identify OT educators’ perspectives on incorporating content on climate change and environmental sustainability in entry-level OT and OTA curricula.

2. To determine how ACOTE-accredited and developing entry-level OT and OTA degree programs currently address climate change and environmental sustainability in their curricula.

Participation in this study will involve an anonymous online survey designed to collect quantitative and qualitative data regarding occupational therapy educators’ perspectives on climate change and environmental sustainability in their curricula. The survey will also gather demographic information to better understand the contextual factors. The survey should take approximately 20 minutes to complete.

If you are interested in participating, please complete the survey using this link: https://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6MC0MYtjsKQ0Efk

Thank you for considering being a part of our research. Your contribution could play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of the role of OT education and climate change. If you would like more information before participating, please feel free to contact our project lead, Audi Santos, OTD, OTR/L:

Principal Investigator

Audi Santos, OTD, OTR/L

ausantos@salud.unm.edu

(505) 272-8454

July Finance Totals

Account balances:

Checking: $56,366.92

Money market: $51,556.02

CD: $19,569.57

Thank you for your membership. It goes a long way towards offering annual conferences and paying for our lobbyists. Our lobbyist is doing a great job for Michigan's Occupational Therapist's.

As the finance director, I am looking to mentor someone for the finance director position. If you have an interest in administrative work, are good at keeping track of finances and are looking for an opportunity to become involved in MIOTA, please contact me at Finance@MIOTA.org. I'd love to talk to you about this great opportunity!

Cindy Klinger, BA, COTAL, FMiOTA, MIOTA Finance Director

Happy End of Summer MiOTA Members. On behalf of the membership committee, THANK YOU so much

for your membership and support. We have continued to grow our numbers this year and that would

not be possible without each of you!

We are continuing to focus on reaching out and providing education around the state about the benefits

of being a MiOTA member. Please invite us to attend an event or even a lunch meeting (virtually or in

person.) We are always available to answer questions that anyone has about membership so please

don’t hesitate to reach out.

The membership committee is also planning quarterly Membership Drive- PDU Events during the year.

Please keep an eye out for an invitation and additional details via Email and the MiOTA Website. These

events will be for both Members and Non-Member so please think of a few friends or colleagues that

are not MiOTA members you can invite to join the event. We are also offering a special 25% discount for any Non-member that joins MiOTA within 24 hours of all events/webinars throughout the year.

Our next Virtual Social Event topic will be released soon. We are working on a date for this event and an

invitation will be sent out as soon as possible.

We are also holding new member orientation webinars every quarter. This is for all new

members or even members who want to ask questions or become more familia with the

organization. Please make sure to register and join ��

We also want to HEAR FROM YOU about exciting NEWS, Promotions, Anything OT related that is

happening with YOU, Colleagues, friends or in your clinic.

We hope everyone has a wonderful Fall and we look forward to seeing everyone at conference!! Thank

you so much for your support!!

-Sonny Grendel (MiOTA Membership Co-Director) sonnykay12@gmail.com

Fall 2024 ADVOCACY REPORT

Denise Hoffman, OTD, OTRL, BCP, FMiOTA

MiOTA Advocacy Director (advocacy@MIOTA.ORG)

___________________________________________________________________

Lansing Lobby Day

March 19 th , 2025

9:30 am – 2:30 pm

Heritage Hall (*new for lobby events – onsite)

Bylaws Report

For the past 2 years the Bylaws Committee has met nearly every month to review and update

the document. The Bylaws provide guidance, policies, and procedures for running the

association. The Bylaws have not been updated since 2008 and are greatly outdated,

inequitable, and grossly misrepresent the association’s current practice culture. The new

document is a proposed draft, and electronic voting will take place in October. Review the

document and provide any public comments by 9-19-24.

CALL TO ACTION FOR ALL MIOTA MEMBERS:

1. Review the proposed bylaws

2. Provide any public comment

3. Vote on the changes (electronic ballot will be sent in October)

Bylaws Summary of Current and Proposed Changes.

Power Point Summary

Welcome New Advocacy Volunteers

Samantha Fitzsimmons - MiOTA BCBS Liaison Rep

Paige Natke – MiOTA Medicaid Rep

 Please email any reimbursement questions or concerns to:

Advocacy@miota.org

 Please email any Reimbursement success stories to

advocacy@miota.org

Seeking New Advocacy Committee Volunteers

 Share your voice to advocate for the

profession.

 Help plan advocacy events, including Lobby Day

 Every other month meetings (3 rd Thursday of the month)

 Contact Denise at advocacy@miota.org to volunteer TODAY!

Auto No-Fault, Update

The Coalition Protecting Auto No-Fault (CPAN) and supporters gathered at the Capitol on Tuesday November 14th, 2023 for a final advocacy effort of the year. This day marked the last day of the legislative session of the year, and session will return mid-January. The current bills, SB 530, 531 and 575 were passed in the Senate in mid-October. SB 530 to revise limitations on charges; SB 531 to cross-reference to amended section of the insurance code; SB 575 to cross-reference in the insurance code, amend section to reflect elimination of referenced definition. CPAN hopes that the legislature will make solving the crisis a priority in 2024.

Stay up to date: https://protectnofault.org

Paige Natke, OTD, OTRL

Member-At-Large

New Volunteers!!!

Kallen Wolfer - Design and SCHED Support

Harrison DiCocco - Social Media Coordinator

Clair-Marie Gray - Merchandising

Automatic Certificates at Conferences

MiOTA is pleased to announce that we are now providing contact hour certificates automatically via email at our conferences. Certificates are automatically sent upon completion of the quiz questions after a presentation. You can then upload these to your Simple Cert portal (if you like) to keep them all in one place.

Certificate Portal

MiOTA is now using Simple Cert to provide you with a portal where you can access your certificates for attending monthly and incidental PD events. If you attend a MiOTA sponsored event or meeting that provides PD credits, after the meeting you will receive your certificate via email from Simple Cert. You will also receive login information so that you can go back and access any/all of the PD certificates you have received since we began the service.

Member newsletters will go out 4 times this year: January - April - July - October. These newsletters are full of information about upcoming events and important information related to occupational therapy practice, certification, and licensure.

Nancy Hock, OTRL

Communications Director

Holly Grieves

website@miota.org

Robin Pegg

administration@miota.org

Midwest Hand Therapy

Shelby township location

Part time opening Tuesday/Thursday/Friday

Experience in hands and splinting required

Contact Jen Maiani at 586-532-0803 if interested

Broad River Rehab is Growing!

BRR has a part-time COTA opening in Plainwell, MI.

Part Time Benefits Include:

• Competitive wages
• PTO
• 401k Retirement Plan
• Company Paid CEUs
• Mentorship program for all new graduate or new to the SNF setting

Broad River Rehab is a knowledgeable and compassionate employer, owned and operated by therapists.

For more information, contact:
Whitney Deck
at 864-313-0770 or
wdeck@broadriverrehab.com

There are many opportunities to advertise through MiOTA. Go to our website and in the dropdown box titled “About Us” find the Advertise with Us dropdown. Advertise your jobs, company, research study, or event through MiOTA.