Few studies have outlined the processes and structures needed to develop and integrate occupational therapy into a primary care provider's office setting. This paper focuses on implementation of the clinic model of occupational therapy in primary care and is intended to address the deficiencies in current literature, including detailed program development steps. Barriers identified in the 8-week pilot program and the successful development of a reimbursable occupational therapy service in primary care will be discussed. The results of the implementation of occupational therapy in primary care are positive. The providers have accepted and embraced the distinct value of occupational therapy in this setting. Occupational therapy in the primary care setting is an emerging area of practice and further research is needed to measure the impact of interventions in this setting and the relationship to outcomes.

The pandemic caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) highlighted the insufficient public health policies and lack of a national pandemic response strategy. Rehabilitation departments faced barriers to providing care in the traditional manner and needed to consider protection of patients and staff, staffing and personal protective equipment shortages, and uncertainty about best practices to address a novel health condition. This article highlights the strategies implemented by acute care occupational therapy leaders to support their staff; facilitate efficient care provision; and pivot with constantly changing policies, procedures, and research during the COVID-19 crisis. Occupational therapy’s distinct value in caring for this population and role in responding to the pandemic are shared to provide a guidepost for future health care crises.

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