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National barrier free standards
The U.S. Veterans Administration, President's committee on Employment of the handicapped, and the National Easter Seals Society developed the national standards for "Barrier free" buildings to allow access for all, including the disabled. -
Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lectureship Award
Established in 1954 to any AOTA (American Occupation Therapy Association) member who has had many contributions to the development and growth of the knowledge of Occupational Therapists and the profession. This may be someone who has developed theories or techniques that enhance OT practice or be completely committed to OT research, teaching, and/or mentorship. -
Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1954
This act (and public law 565), signed by President Eisenhower not only increased federal funding for health administration and research, but it also expanded services which meant better quality care for those with disabilities, and more specifically for the mentally. This act also helped Occupational therapists because it put them alongside all other rehab services, which allowed for the growth of OTs in various settings! -
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Creation of the COTA role
The COTA role was introduced in response to growing demands for OT services.
This recognition helped solidify OT’s role within the medical model and increased its legitimacy as a healthcare profession. The significant impact was that it enabled billing and reimbursement for OT services. This allowed for more standardized training and credentialing. OT became a recognized therapeutic medical service. -
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WFOT Gains Momentum and Global Structure
Membership expands and strengthens international professional standards.
Assistive Tech launched by Muriel Zimmerman -
1958: AOTF
The American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) was officially founded. This was a pivotal moment in the history of occupational therapy, marking the profession’s commitment to advancing scientific research, educational excellence, and public awareness of OT.
Impact:
To support education and training for occupational therapy practitioners and scholars
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Joining the World Health Organization
In 1959, a significant development in occupational therapy was the opening of the first school for occupational therapy assistants. Additionally, the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) was admitted into official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO) that same year. These events highlight the growing recognition and expansion of the field in both education and international collaboration. -
AOTA Develops COTAs Curriculum
In 1960, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) focused on developing a 12-week curriculum to train Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs). This event marked a significant step in expanding the profession and creating a pathway for assistants to contribute to occupational therapy practice. -
AOTA Establishes Professional Standards and Advocacy Role
AOTA publishes a "Statement of Policy" outlining its role in providing voluntary practitioner registration; overseeing OT education with the AMA; creating and sustaining clinical practice standards; supporting professional development; expanding OT knowledge for medical physicians; protecting OT practice standards and environments; and stopping policies detracting from OT's treatment role. -
Federal Recognition, Education Reform, and Student Engagement in OT
The Social Security Amendment Act of 1965 establishes Medicare and Medicaid, naming OT as part of extended care and home health services. AOTA creates the American Occupational Therapy Foundation to build OT research and public awareness. OT curriculum standards are updated to require 3 months in physical disabilities and 3 months in psychosocial practice. The Student Occupational Therapy Association begins meeting at AOTA's Annual Conference to promote student involvement and OT awareness. -
Establishment of Medicare and Medicaid Including OT Services
In 1965, the U.S. government passed the Social Security Amendment Act, creating Medicare and Medicaid. For the first time, occupational therapy was officially recognized as a covered service. This allowed older adults and low-income individuals to access OT through federal insurance. It was a major step forward, expanding the profession’s reach and helping OT become a more established part of the healthcare system, especially in home health and long-term care settings. -
AOTA Defines Occupational Therapy Professionally
In 1968, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) released the first official definition of occupational therapy. It described OT as “the art and science of directing man’s response to selected activity…” This was important because it gave the profession a clear identity and helped explain what occupational therapists do. Having a standard definition made it easier to educate others, build respect for the field, and guide how OT was taught and practiced. -
Legislative Milestones
1972: AOTA’s Headquarters moves to 6000 Executive Boulevard in Rockville, Maryland, to be closer to Congress for lobbying and to NIH for federal research funding. AOTA creates the Government and Legal Affairs Division (GLAD) to address issues related to occupational therapy practice in Congressional legislation. COTAs begin to receive AJOT as a member benefit.
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Significant Events
1974: AOTA approves a position in favor of state licensure. The first Model Practice Act is created. The Black Occupational Therapy Caucus (BOTC) is founded.
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