+ Do You Take ICBC Claims?
Yes we do! The best way to get this started is to talk to your family doctor. Explain to them what you’re having difficulties with, whether that be managing post-concussion symptoms, challenges with getting back to work, or going about your basic daily activities. Your doctor will be able to write a referral note recommending OT services. Forward that note on to us and we'll deal with the rest for you!
+ Do You Take WorkSafeBC Claims?
We absolutely do! Workplace injuries, like any other injury can really impact one's ability to complete their usual activities of daily living (especially work!). With a focus on returning to work, our OTs are often called upon by WorkSafeBC Case Managers to help injured workers durably return to their job, in a safe and efficient manner.
+ I Haven’t Had a Workplace Injury or Car Accident. Can I Still Benefit From OT Services?
Yes you definitely can! The most common way that someone without outright injuries can benefit from OT services is through preventative services such as an ergonomic assessment or home safety assessment. An ergonomic assessment can benefit anyone who works primarily at a desk. People might notice that their back, shoulder(s), wrist(s) or neck are sore, painful, or uncomfortable after working at their desk for a while, particularly with how popular home offices have become since the pandemic. Polaris Rehab OTs can visit and assess your work station, give you education on desktop ergonomics, make the appropriate changes on the spot, make recommendations for ergonomic equipment/items and connect you with resources to obtain them.
A home safety assessment is beneficial for those who want to age in place, whether that is yourself, or someone you know like a parent, that want to age in place. Maybe they’ve lived most of their lives in their home and are not ready to move to assisted living, but they have experienced a few slips, falls, or close calls. Maybe safety or independence is starting to become a concern. Polaris Rehab OTs can work with these clients to find areas where safety can be bolstered and connect them with community based services, so that clients can continue to live in the place they feel most at home, safely and independently.
A growing number of extended health plans will cover OT services as a rehabilitation service. Services can also be funded privately. If you’re not sure, reach out to us and we can help discuss your needs!
+ Is Occupational Therapy The Same As Physiotherapy?
While there is some overlap, OT is a distinctive and often complimentary discipline to PT. A great way to understand the difference is that PT’s primary concern is the function of your body parts, whereas OT’s primary concern is how you’re able to go about your daily activities, and how you can compensate for your injury while it heals. For example, if you have a broken leg and start an OT and PT program for rehab, the PT will look at pain management, and building mobility and strength in the injured leg. The OT will examine how you’re able to get in and out and around your home, perform your personal care safely, take care of your home, and resume your responsibilities safely at work, school, or home. OTs will assist with adaptive equipment, energy conservation and symptom management strategies, home safety equipment, and referrals to additional services.
+ Where Do Appointments Take Place?
We work in the community, which means that we come to you! So, you don't have to commute anywhere. Appointments are generally completed at your residence, but depending on the need/service provided, some may take place at your jobsite, community centers, coffee shops, libraries, outside at a park, etc.
+ How Long Will Appointments Take?
Typically, the initial meeting/assessment will take a bit longer, generally 1.5 hours, give or take. This gives us an opportunity to get to know you, and find out exactly where you’re having difficulties in your day-to-day life. Typical OT treatment sessions thereafter usually last from 45-60minutes.
+ How Many Appointments Do I Need?
Much of this depends on the goals you’re trying to achieve. A simple program can be as short as one session (ie. ergonomic assessment/report), whereas if your goals are more complex and there are a number of variables and circumstances that we need to take into consideration (for example, the typical recovery time for your injury), then programs can go longer. We’re here to provide support for as long as it is needed.
+ What Communities Do You Serve?
We are able to provide OT services for most regions of the Lower Mainland (ie. as far north as West Van/North Van, south to Tsawwassen, and east to Mission/Abbotsford).