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The HMinfo Research Library contains an in-depth collection of materials on home modifications and related subjects.

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Occupational therapist home evaluations: Inequalities, but doing the best we can?

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy

Author: Lysack, C. L., Neufeld, S.
Year: 2003
Type: Journal Article

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was (a) to describe the occupational therapy recommendations provided to patients discharged to inner city homes, and (b) to examine the relationship between patient health insurance and the number and type of occupational therapist recommendations for equipment and home modifications.METHOD. An archival review was conducted of all referrals to the home evaluation program (n=755) at a large urban rehabilitation hospital between January 1, 1994, and December 31, 1998. Additional patient demographic data and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) data were obtained in electronic form from the hospital information database.RESULTS. Analysis of results showed that while the pattern of equipment and modification recommendations varied little, publicly insured patients received fewer home modification recommendations compared to privately insured patients (t=3.7; p<.0005), and were discharged from rehabilitation with significantly lower functional independence (MANOVA F=3.9; p=.05).CONCLUSION. Results alert occupational therapists to the relationship between health insurance and treatment recommendations and point to patient advocacy and health policy as potential pathways to desired a achieve social change.


Further Details

Publish Dates Jul-Aug
Full Title The American Journal of Occupational Therapy
Pages 369-379
Volume 57
Issue 4
Accession Number December, 2010
Research Notes Electronic copy added 12/07/2013
Keywords olderhome modificationhealth insurancereimbursmentmodification

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