OTH 615 Week 1 lecture 2024

Professionalism II: Professional Identity and Ethics

Course Overview

  • Syllabus and learning objectives discussed.

Definition of Professionalism

  • Conformance to standards and norms of a profession.

  • Behavior reflecting appropriate attitude for the professional role.

Components of Professionalism

  • Ethics: Fulfilling social and ethical responsibilities.

  • Responsibility: Moral and legal accountability for actions.

  • Behavior: Combination of observable behaviors and personal mindset.

  • Competency: Knowledge and skill maintenance.

Professionalization of Occupational Therapy

  • History:

    • NSPOT founded in 1917.

    • AOTA established in 1923.

    • Code of Ethics and core values developed.

Ethical Governance Organizations

  • State/Regional Level: SRBs monitor practice.

  • Institutional Level: TJC and IRB oversee credentials and compliance.

Professionalism in Clinical Practice

  • Ensures adherence to professional standards.

Credentialing Process

  • Certification and Registration:

    • Eligibility depends on completion of accredited program.

    • Steps required to apply for NBCOT exam:

      1. Apply for exam.

      2. Agree to NBCOT standards.

      3. Prepare a study plan.

Eligibility for NBCOT Exam

  • U.S. candidates must graduate from accredited programs:

    • COTA (Associate's) or OTR (Entry-level Master's/Doctorate).

Steps for Applying for NBCOT Exam

  • Read exam handbook carefully.

  • Complete application in one sitting on MyNBCOT.

  • Submit final transcript via school registrar.

  • Schedule exam through Prometric.

NBCOT Certification and Renewal

  • Certification granted for 3 years.

  • Minimum of 36 PDUs required for renewal between January and March.

  • Maintaining OTR designation is necessary for licensing.

Categories for PDUs

  • Workshops, supervision, presenting, publishing, professional service, NBCOT Navigator.

Tips for Professionalism in Credentialing

  • Stay organized with a professional portfolio.

  • Be proactive and detail-oriented.

  • Maintain clear communication with faculty and state boards.

State Licensure

  • Grants legal privilege to practice OT in state.

  • Must graduate from accredited program and pass NBCOT exam.

Steps to Licensure

  • Apply and pass NBCOT certification.

  • Complete initial application and secure required documents.

  • Passing the state exam may be required.

Initial Licensure Application Checklist

  • Documentation of graduation and fieldwork completion.

  • NBCOT exam score and initial application fee.

  • Complete background check and submit letters of recommendation.

Maintaining Your License

  • Ensure timely renewal to avoid job loss and costly recovery.

  • Complete required continuing education.

Case Scenario

  • Example of an OT faced with disciplinary action due to practice without a license after relocation.

Disciplinary Actions for Violations

  • Reprimand, censure, probation, suspension, and revocation defined.