C LI NI C IA N TASK F OR C E
CLINICIAN TASK FORCE: SUPPORTING CLINICIANS AND THE CRT PROCESS Written by: TAMARA KITTELSON, MS, OTR/L, ATP/SMS
An old adage states if you want something to get done, then ask a busy person — and Clinician Task Force (CTF) members often fit the bill. We advocate and educate about important topics and issues in the seating and wheeled mobility (SWM) industry, and frequently work on projects with immediate and visible results and long-term impacts. In the last year, CTF members have helped with power feature coverage, CPT codes and formulating guidelines. CTF members are currently working on RESNA position papers regarding power assist devices, 24-hour posture care management, updated benefits of tilt, recline and power elevating leg rests, and a myriad other efforts at local, state and federal levels. Most of us are experienced practitioners who did not gain SWM experience through occupational or physical therapy school. In fact, we typically graduated with only a narrow understanding of this domain. With limited academic exposure, most clinicians are tasked with learning through mentoring, experience and continuing education including attendance at conferences like the International Seating Symposium (ISS) and RESNA. Additionally, some clinicians who hold occupational or physical therapist or speech-language pathology licenses who also hold certifications like the ATP and SMS, need extra CEUs due to non-overlapping requirements. Expenses have risen across the board, and employer aid for conference attendance has dwindled. With the cost and the rise of virtual education options, employers contend that virtual education is more cost-effective and results in fewer workdays lost, as compared to in-person events. However, experience in the SWM industry, the value of networking, informal learning and hands-on product experiences at conferences does not equate to a virtual webinar. While both methods have merit, virtual is often not a direct substitute for in-person learning. In lieu of, or to complement employer and other support, the CTF recently implemented a policy enabling members to seek scholarships for conference participation. Through the kind support of numerous industry manufacturers
and fundraising endeavors, we can now sustain our efforts and help with conference attendance. In 2023, several CTF members took advantage of this novel scholarship opportunity. Scholarship recipient Tamara Kittelson noted: “This made a world of difference in funding my attendance at ISS, where I not only was able to help teach in three presentations, but also took an extended shift at the CTF table and enjoyed all the networking opportunities the conference offered. I feel grateful for the scholarship opportunity and for all the industry sponsors of CTF work that made it possible.” Scholarship recipient Amber Ward noted: “After years of virtual attendance, being able to be hands-on was amazing and gave me a renewed energy for learning and discovery.” Having a skilled work force in a specialized area of practice like seating and mobility is vital for several reasons: • Quality of Care: Individuals with SWM needs are complex at baseline and require knowledgeable specialists to address their unique needs and provide tailored solutions.
Trish Toole, Jenny Hutson, Tamara Kittelson, and Lee Ann Hoffman after presenting together at ISS.
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