The Amplify OT Podcast

How the Overturn of the Chevron Deference Will Impact The Future of Healthcarewith John MillerIf you’re in the Amplify OT Membership or you’ve been paying attention to the Supreme Court then you may have heard about the overturning of the Chevron deference. Regardless if you’ve joined the conversation or not, it’s time to start paying attention as the overturning of this precedence may have huge implications on the future of healthcare. Joining me to broach this topic is my father, John Miller, a lawyer with 40 years of experience in his field as he shares insights of how the legal landscape affects healthcare and what this ruling means for our profession moving forward. This week on The Amplify OT Podcast, my dad and I are talking about how the overturn of the Chevron deference will impact the future of healthcare!Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.Registration is officially open for the virtual Amplify Therapy Summit July 25-27!In this episode, we cover:Summarizing the 3 branches of government and their respective responsibilities.  The history and implications of Chevron deference and the shift in judicial approaches to agency interpretations of law.What this ruling means for the future of healthcare policy and reimbursement. Action items for staying informed and influencing policy during the upcoming months of uncertainty. Thanks for listening! If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow, rate and review the show. To learn more about Amplify OT head to https://amplifyot.com/ Have a question or just want to say hello? Call or text +1 (919)-341-9289 to have your questions answered on the podcast! *Message and Data Rates May ApplyAmplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Register to Vote!...

Stop Saying "No One Knows What Occupational Therapy Is"I am standing on my soapbox when I say we have to stop saying, “No one knows what OT is”. I’ll be honest, I am guilty of this myself and am proactively working to change it because this phrase is detrimental to our profession and our perception of ourselves and prevents us from moving forward together. This week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am sharing why we need to stop using the phrase, “No one knows what OT is” and what to do instead.As an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the OT Amplifiers Collective at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:Updates coming to the Amplify OT Membership (now called the OT Amplifiers Collective). There is a lack of awareness of what OT is and the scope of our practice, however, by further confirming this narrative, we can’t move forward. We should look to overcome barriers, not let them stop us in our tracks. Changing the phrase, “no one knows what OT is” to “they don’t understand OT right now” and taking ownership to do something about it.When explaining our profession, it’s important to consider the goals of the person you’re talking to and use language that is familiar to them. I understand that this episode may ruffle some feathers and that’s OK! I encourage you to join the discussion by joining the OT Amplifiers Collective and sharing your thoughts and opinions on our discussion board!Thanks for listening! If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow, rate and review the show. To learn more about Amplify OT head to https://amplifyot.com/ Have a question or just want to say hello? Call or text +1 (919)-341-9289 to have your questions answered on the podcast! *Message and Data Rates May ApplyAmplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTok ©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs a exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time!...

Insurance and How It Impacts Our Plan of Care [Replay]As a therapy provider, you will see many insurance types including private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, as well as others. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am talking about how insurance impacts our plan of care!Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I review the common insurance terms and how visit limits and therapy coverage can impact how and when we provide care.Grab the FREE Billing Guide at: https://amplifyot.com/billing/ Check out the link to the Amplify OT article on this topic: https://amplifyot.com/health-insurance-in-occupational-therapy-plan-of-care/Thanks for listening! If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow, rate and review the show. To learn more about Amplify OT head to https://amplifyot.com/ Have a question or just want to say hello? Call or text +1 (919)-341-9289 to have your questions answered on the podcast! *Message and Data Rates May ApplyAmplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTok ©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs a exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy. Join the Membership TodayAmplify Therapy SummitGet your free ticket to the Amplify Therapy Summit at Amplifytherapysummit.com today! Happening virtually on July 25-27. Upgrade to VIP for extended access to recordings, live panels, and CE certificates.

Skilled Nursing Facilities vs. Nursing Homes: What You Need to KnowOften skilled nursing facilities (SNF) and nursing homes are used interchangeably as many facilities offer both services, however, they are two separate things. With the negative stigma surrounding nursing homes, it is important to know the difference between the two and use proper terms when communicating with your patients and their families. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am talking about the differences between skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes so you can better communicate the right care with your patients!Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:The fundamental differences between SNFs and nursing homes come down to the reimbursement, type of services provided, and length of stay. Statistics on SNFs and nursing homes, including ownership, profit status, and services offered. Medicare and Medicaid’s role in funding these facilities and how this affects the services that patients receive. Practical tips on discussing care options with patients, alleviating common fears, and overcoming the stigmas associated with these facilities.Thanks for listening! If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow, rate and review the show. To learn more about Amplify OT head to https://amplifyot.com/ Have a question or just want to say hello? Call or text +1 (919)-341-9289 to have your questions answered on the podcast! *Message and Data Rates May ApplyAmplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:CMS.gov State Operations Manual- Survey and Enforcement Process for Skilled Nursing Facilities and Nursing FacilitiesU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for SNFs (May 2023)

Decoding Medicare Advantage and Medicaid MCOs: Understanding the CoverageYou may have heard (or even said) that Medicare Advantage is great if you’re healthy but terrible if you’re sick. But why is that? This week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I’m sharing what Medicare Advantage is, why it’s popular, despite these claims, and how it has expanded into the Medicaid space with managed care organizations (MCOs).Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:Benefits and barriers that come with Medicare Advantage plans.The difference between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Why managed care plans (MCOs) are popular, especially for governments. Current and proposed regulatory changes that affect these plans and us as practitioners. Thanks for listening! If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow, rate and review the show. To learn more about Amplify OT head to https://amplifyot.com/ Have a question or just want to say hello? Call or text +1 (919) 341-9289 to have your questions answered on the podcast! *Message and Data Rates May ApplyAmplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Ep 50: Volume-Based vs. Value-Based Reimbursement Models in OTCMS Finalizes Rule to Expand Access to Health Information and Improve the Prior Authorization Process [CMS.gov Article]Medicare Advantage in 2023: Enrollment Update and Key Trends [KFF.org Article]Medicaid: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver [YouTube]...

Volume-Based vs. Value-Based Reimbursement Models in OT Reimbursement models, in healthcare and business in general, incentivize specific behaviors. The reimbursement model you work under will directly influence what is expected of you. Once you have a better understanding of the incentive structures, you can work better within that structure. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am talking about volume-based vs. value-based reimbursement models.Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:Historically, the United States has leaned closer to a volume-based care system, only adopting value-based care alongside the Affordable Care Act of 2010.Pros and cons of volume-based and value-based care models.Fee-for-service (volume-based) can be compared to shopping at a grocery store and paying a specific price for each item you buy. Less common for OT practitioners, Capitated payments (value-based) can be compared to a gym membership where you pay a set dollar amount per month regardless of how many times you go to the gym. Bundled payments (value-based) are like getting a paycheck where a certain amount goes towards paying necessities like bills and groceries and the rest is up to you to spend as you choose. Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokDownload the Amplify OT App on IOS LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Reimbursement Models in OT: Do You Know What They Are? [Blog]How Understanding PDPM in Skilled Nursing Facilities Can Make You a Better Clinician [Blog and Podcast Episode]Sign Up for the Amplify Therapy Summit ©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Join the Amplify OT...

Amplifying Impact: Clarice’s Journey from Clinician to OT VisionaryI had the incredible honor of receiving AOTA’s Gary Kielhofner Emerging Leader Award this year. So in celebration of this career achievement, Lindsay Bright joins me as my guest host to interview me on my journey from practicing clinician to OT advocate, my goals and plans for Amplify OT, and my vision for the future of our profession. This week on The Amplify OT Podcast, we’re diving into Clarice’s journey from clinician to OT visionary. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, Lindsay and I cover:My journey from home health to acute care, to starting Amplify OT. What advocacy means for me both as a clinician and in my current role. The biggest challenges I have had to overcome through my advocacy work. What it feels like to be an online figure that people come to for information and resources.My hopes for Amplify OT in the years to come. Our goals and intentions for the Amplify Therapy SummitAmplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterOT MerchInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Sign Up for the Amplify Therapy Summit ©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs a exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy. Join the Membership TodayAmplify Therapy SummitGet your free ticket to the Amplify Therapy Summit at Amplifytherapysummit.com today! Happening virtually on July 25-27. Upgrade to VIP for extended access to recordings, live panels, and CE certificates.

Spring 2024 Amplify OT and Healthcare Advocacy Updates2023 was a big year for passing healthcare legislation. A lot of what came through Congress in 2023 is starting to be implemented early in 2024, impacting OT in a big way. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am talking about OT advocacy updates for spring 2024. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:With the passing of the 2022 Omnibus Bill, Congress established a new Medicare mental health benefit known as the intensive outpatient program (IOP). With the passing of the Lymphedema Treatment Act in 2022, Medicare Part B will now cover standard and custom-fitted lymphedema compression treatment items for each affected body part for patients with lymphedema.CMS rolled out new Caregiver Training codes that can be used as of January 1, 2024. This is the first time OT practitioners can be reimbursed for services that do not directly involve a service provided directly to the client. In a rare turn of events, CMS is increasing Medicare Part A payments to home health agencies by 0.8% in 2024, equating to $140 million.Home health will see some changes to their quality reporting program and value-based purchasing in addition to the payment increase.OT services paid for under Medicare Part B will face a 3.37% decrease compared to 2023. For 2024, the updated KX Modifier therapy threshold is $2,330 for OT and $2,330 for physical and speech therapy services combined.General supervision of OTAs in private practice was unexpectedly extended until the end of Calendar Year 2024.Aetna is delaying the implementation of the OTA payment differential from December 2023 to March 2024.The Consolidated Appropriations Act...

Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) in Skilled Nursing Facilities [Replay]Today's episode is all about the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF).Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Amplify OT SNF Resources ©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs a exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy. Join the Membership TodayAmplify Therapy SummitGet your free ticket to the Amplify Therapy Summit at Amplifytherapysummit.com today! Happening virtually on July 25-27. Upgrade to VIP for extended access to recordings, live panels, and CE certificates.

From Policy to Practice: Everything You Need to Know About Section GGSection GG is one of my favorite topics to talk about because it was really one of the first indications of CMS starting to pay attention to function, mobility, and self-care as an outcome desired from healthcare services. This assessment continues to play an important role in functional assessments, quality measures, and reimbursements across post-acute care settings. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am sharing what you need to know about Section GG. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:Uncovering why Section GG came about in the first place helps us better understand the purpose it serves today. Breaking down the 2 categories within Section GG: self-care and mobility. Knowing how to score is so important because accurate (or inaccurate) scoring deeply impacts the perceived value of OT and future reimbursement.  Helpful advice you need to know when it comes to scoring Section GG. Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) in Skilled Nursing FacilitiesPatient-Driven Groupings Model (PDGM) in Home HealthAOT: Everything You Need to Know About Section GG*CMS links and training are included in the AOT article.  ©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Amplify Therapy SummitGet your free ticket to the Amplify Therapy Summit at Amplifytherapysummit.com today! Happening virtually on July 25-27. Upgrade to VIP for extended access to recordings, live panels, and CE certificates. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs...

Ep 45: An Interview with AOTA’s Vice-President Candidates Natalie Chang Wright and Christina Reyes Smith [Election Series Part 3]AOTA’s elections are upon us! That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, through a 3-part episode series, I am sitting down with the candidates running for President and Vice-President in the 2024 AOTA election. Through these conversations, it is my hope that we can all learn more about the people running for important leadership positions so we can make an informed choice.   View all interview videos at https://amplifyot.com/electionsAs a reminder, voting opens February 2, 2024 and close Feb 23, 2024 at 11:59 AM ET. Please remember that you must be an AOTA member as of January 2, 2024 in order to participate in voting and you must be a current member on the date that you vote.🗳️ Vote here: AOTA.org/electionsSample Ballot (members only)Disclaimer: I, myself, and Amplify OT as an entity are not endorsing any specific candidate. I am using my platform as a resource for these candidates to speak on. ⏩ Looking to skip ahead? Natalie Chang Wright’s interview begins at 04:04Christina Reyes Smith’s interview begins after the ad break at 31:26In each interview, the candidates are asked the following questions:Why are you running for Vice-President of AOTA and why now? What would be your "day one" priorities, if elected? In your opinion what is the primary role or mission of AOTA in our profession? Do you believe membership is important? Why or why not?The last AOTA workforce study showed that 25% of practitioners are considering leaving the field, and AOTA had a 7% drop in membership this year. Do you think these issues are related? And in your opinion, what would be the best way to address these issues?What advice would you give to someone who may be interested in volunteering or taking a leadership role?Why should someone vote for you? For more information and candidate bios, head over to https://amplifyot.com/electionsAmplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteWork With MeFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedIn

An Interview with AOTA’s Presidential Candidates Michael Pizzi and Vikram Pagpatan [Election Series Part 2]AOTA’s elections are upon us! That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, through a 3-part episode series, I am sitting down with the candidates running for President and Vice-President in the 2024 AOTA election. Through these conversations, it is my hope that we can all learn more about the people running for important leadership positions so we can make an informed choice.   Listen/watch all interviews at https://amplifyot.com.com/electionsAs a reminder, voting opens February 2, 2024 and close Feb 23, 2024 at 11:59 AM ET. Please remember that you must be an AOTA member as of January 2, 2024 in order to participate in voting and you must be a current member on the date that you vote.🗳️ Vote here: AOTA.org/electionsSample Ballot (members only)Disclaimer: I, myself, and Amplify OT as an entity are not endorsing any specific candidate. I am using my platform as a resource for these candidates to speak on. ⏩ Looking to skip ahead? Michael A. Pizzi’s interview begins at 04:04Vikram Pagpatan’s interview begins after the ad break at 32:12In each interview, the candidates are asked the following questions:Why are you running for President of AOTA and why now? What would be your "day one" priorities, if elected? In your opinion what is the primary role or mission of AOTA in our profession? Do you believe membership is important? Why or why not?The last AOTA workforce study showed that 25% of practitioners are considering leaving the field, and AOTA had a 7% drop in membership this year. Do you think these issues are related? And in your opinion, what would be the best way to address these issues?What advice would you give to someone who may be interested in volunteering or taking a leadership role?Why should someone vote for you? For more information and candidate bios, head over to https://amplifyot.com/elections Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedIn

An Interview with AOTA’s Presidential Candidates Karen Sames & Arameh Avarizade [Election Series Part 1]AOTA’s elections are upon us! That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, through a 3-part episode series, I am sitting down with the candidates running for President and Vice-President in the 2024 AOTA election. Through these conversations, it is my hope that we can all learn more about the people running for important leadership positions so we can make an informed choice.   Listen/watch all interviews at https://amplifyot.com.com/elections and read their bios.As a reminder, voting opens February 2, 2024 and close Feb 23, 2024 at 11:59 AM ET. Please remember that you must be an AOTA member as of January 2, 2024 in order to participate in voting and you must be a current member on the date that you vote.🗳️ Vote here: AOTA.org/electionsSample Ballot (members only)Disclaimer: I, myself, and Amplify OT as an entity are not endorsing any specific candidate. I am using my platform as a resource for these candidates to speak on. ⏩ Looking to skip ahead? Karen M. Sames interview begins at 04:04Dr. Arameh Anvarizadeh’s interview begins after the ad break at 29:55In each interview, the candidates are asked the following questions:Why are you running for President of AOTA and why now? What would be your "day one" priorities, if elected? In your opinion what is the primary role or mission of AOTA in our profession? Do you believe membership is important? Why or why not?The last AOTA workforce study showed that 25% of practitioners are considering leaving the field, and AOTA had a 7% drop in membership this year. Do you think these issues are related? And in your opinion, what would be the best way to address these issues?What advice would you give to someone who may be interested in volunteering or taking a leadership role?Why should someone vote for you? For more information and candidate bios, head over to https://amplifyot.com/electionsAmplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedIn

The Value of Membership in Shaping the OT Profession with Vikram PagpatanAOTA’s elections are upon us and historically, less than 4% of members participate in annual voting. This is such a small percentage of practitioners influencing the future of our profession.  Today I am joined by AOTA’s presidential candidate and current Board Member, Vik Pagpatan as he brings us his insight from the inside, discussing the full scope of AOTA, the profession as a whole, and the power of community. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am talking about the value of membership in shaping the OT profession. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, Vikram and I cover:What motivated Vik to get further involved in AOTA, becoming a member of the Board of Directors and now running for President of the association. Addressing the misconceptions of power and influence in associations like AOTA. Why representation is so critical to enact change of any kind. Challenges OT professionals are facing across the country. The power and value of community in all forms. A brief overview of Vik’s panel addressing men in OT, encouraging further discussions on underrepresented topics. As a reminder, AOTA elections open up on February 2, 2024, and close on February 23, 2024, at 11:59 AM ET. You must be an AOTA member to vote. Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH VIKRAM:WebsiteInstagramCONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTok AOTA Elections Page & Sample Ballot: https://www.aota.org/community/get-involved/elected-and-appointed-positions/electionsVoting Window: February 2, 2024 at 12 pm Noon ET – February 23, 2024 at 11:59 am (before Noon) ETMust be an AOTA Member to voteYou can view each profile for the candidates at

Cuts to OT for 2024 + Good NewsAs we enter into a new year, it’s time to take another deep dive into the important updates that shape our profession and why it is so important to keep advocating year after year. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am talking about cuts to OT in 2024, plus some good news we can look forward to!Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:What is the Medicare Physicians Fee Schedule (MPFS) and the professions it impacts. Updates to the conversion factor (spoiler alert: there has been a payment reduction).CMS extended the Telehealth waivers required by Congress. The general supervision requirement for OTAs and PTAs in private practice has been extended. For the first time as therapy practitioners, we are going to be reimbursed for a service that the patient is not physically present for under the new caregiver codes. Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokHelpful LinksAOTA Presentation: Stopping the 2024 Medicare Payment Cut Take Action: AOTA.org/takeaction AOTA MPFS 2024 Article (members only)©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs a exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy. Join the Membership TodayAmplify Therapy SummitGet your free ticket to the Amplify Therapy Summit at Amplifytherapysummit.com today! Happening virtually on July 25-27. Upgrade to VIP for extended access to recordings, live panels, and CE certificates.

Take Action Today! Advocate Against 2024 Medicare CutsOver the past couple of years we have routinely seen reductions in reimbursement underneath the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) and this year is no different. While AOTA is working diligently to advocate for our profession, your voice matters! Writing letters to Congress plays an important role in the legislative process of passing policy in the United States. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am talking about why you need to take action today and advocate against Medicare cuts!Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:The 3.4% reduction we’re looking at in 2024 under the MPFS if no action is taken. How AOTA makes it quick and simple to write a letter to your legislators and be an OT Amplifier. Encouraging you to edit your letters and share personal stories of impact.The different pieces of legislation being brought to Congress and the solutions they are proposing.❗ Tune into the next episode of the Amplify OT Podcast to get deeper into the weeds of why we continue to see cuts year after year.Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokHelpful LinksAOTA Presentation: Stopping the 2024 Medicare Payment Cut URGENT: Contact Congress and ask them to Prevent Medicare Cuts to OTAOTA: Legislative Action Center©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs a exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy. Join the Membership TodayAmplify Therapy SummitGet your free ticket to the Amplify Therapy Summit at Amplifytherapysummit.com today! Happening virtually on July 25-27. Upgrade to VIP for extended access to recordings, live panels, and CE certificates.

Fall 2023 Amplify OT and Healthcare Policy Updates {Bonus Episode}This bonus episode is outside of our regularly scheduled content but I wanted to pop in and give you some updates and let you know about policy changes going into effect. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.The updates I cover in this episode include:Amplify OT updates: membership enrollment open, programs available for students, OT Amplifier series, prompted journals.  Kevin McCarthy was removed from his position as Speaker of the House of Representatives creating a temporary pause in the passing of legislation before being replaced by Mike Johnson.Open enrollment is approaching for both Medicare and commercial insurance plans and CMS has implemented policies to review all Medicare Advantage promotional materials for misleading information before they air.We have had the largest healthcare worker strike in US history and looking at the implications and results of this is interesting to sink into.Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokHelpful LinksThe Daily- NYTNPR - Breaking News, Analysis, Music, Arts & Podcasts : NPRThe Weeds - VoxKFF Health News: What the Health?Pulse Check podcast - POLITICOAmplify OT Products on AmazonAOTA Education Summit 2023How to Teach OT and OTA students Medicare and Health Systems • Amplify OTPOLITICO: CMS Rejects More Than 300 Medicare Advantage AdsKFF Research Shows...

Medicare and Medicaid Policy Updates: RUGS, PDPM, MDSIs Medicare No Longer Paying for OT in SNF?I’ve seen a lot of concern on social media and in my DMs about potential significant changes to PDPM in Skilled Nursing Facilities, specifically around Medicare no longer paying for OT in SNF. You can rest assured that there have NOT been any major changes to Medicare Part A for therapy but other changes have been made. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am talking about updates to PDPM in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) and when these changes are set to take place.Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.The updates I cover in this episode include:CMS finalized that it will no longer support the utilization of RUG payments for Medicaid programs. There have not been any cuts to Medicare Part A SNF funding but rather a 4% increase. Removal of Section G (former ADL section), integrating some items into Section GG (function and self-care).The changing of quality measure scores. Changes and modifications around COVID-19 policies. ICD 10 Code mapping changes for Parkinson's and COVID-19. Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokHelpful LinksMedicare.gov Care CompareAOTA: Major Changes to the Minimum Data Set in Skilled Nursing Facilities Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Skilled Nursing Facility Prospective Payment System Final Rule - CMS-1779-F | CMSOccupational Therapy in Skilled Nursing FacilitiesAmplify OT: SNF Resources Ep 5: Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM) in Skilled Nursing FacilitiesEp....

When OT Can Stand Alone in Home HealthHow many visits does another qualified practitioner have to complete before occupational therapy can stand alone for a Medicare home health patient? This is a question I got asked more than once and wanted to take the time to get to the bottom of this question and address some of the myths around the order of service. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am breaking down the criteria for OT to stand alone in home health.Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:Reviewing the definition of a qualifying service in Medicare Part A.What it means to be able to “stand alone” in home health.Breaking down the policy and answering the question: ow many visits does another qualified practitioner have to complete before occupational therapy can stand alone for a Medicare home health patient?Whether or not it matters what order the therapies go in in order to qualify for home health. Instances where agencies may be hesitant to allow OTs to initiate the start of care.Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokHelpful LinksHome Health Playlist • Amplify OTUltimate OT Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) and Home Health Guide • Amplify OTAmplify OT • Is OT a Qualifying Service in Home Health?Amplify OT: Can Occupational Therapists Perform the SOC OASIS?Amplify OT • What is PDGM in Home Health?©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Amplify Therapy SummitGet your free ticket to the Amplify Therapy Summit at Amplifytherapysummit.com today! Happening virtually on July 25-27. Upgrade to VIP for extended access to recordings, live panels, and CE certificates. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs a exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become...

Diving into Deductibles: Untangling the Complexity of Health Insurance PricingDeductibles are an important, yet often misunderstood factor in the American health insurance system. I recently got asked a question from someone wondering if we truly have our health insurance if it doesn't kick in until our deductible is paid. That’s why this week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am breaking down the reasons deductibles are incorporated into our health insurance plans!Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:The difference between a premium and a deductible. The moral hazard and financial hazard arguments as to why we must pay a deductible on our health insurance.The current and ongoing debate over deductibles happening in Congress.Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! CONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:WebsiteServicesFree NewsletterInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTok ©Amplify OTMentioned in this episode:Amplify Therapy SummitGet your free ticket to the Amplify Therapy Summit at Amplifytherapysummit.com today! Happening virtually on July 25-27. Upgrade to VIP for extended access to recordings, live panels, and CE certificates. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs a exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It’s time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy. Join the Membership Today