They may use interviews, observation, and formal assessment tools. Disease manifestations, such as joint, muscle, tendon, nerve, skin and soft tissue involvement, pain and fatigue are evaluated through observation and formal assessment. The home, school and work environment are assessed to determine how they could be altered to enhance the patient's capabilities. Family and community resources are identified. Registered occupational therapists have completed an approved educational program and have received either a baccalaureate degree, an entry level masters degree or post baccalaureate certificate for those who have a degree in another field.
All programs require completion of a minimum period of supervised clinical experience.
Upon graduation, individuals must successfully complete a national certification examination to become a registered therapist. A physician's referral may be necessary to evaluate or treat a patient. For additional information, the American Occupational Therapy Association has a resource guide titled Arthritis Information Packet .