Occupational Therapy Awareness Month

April is recognized as Occupational Therapy Awareness Month, an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable contributions made by Occupational Therapists (OTs) in various settings. This month serves not only as a time for recognition but also as a platform to educate the public about the vital role that OTs play in enhancing the quality of life for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Occupational Therapists are dedicated professionals who utilize their expertise to help people engage in meaningful activities, or "occupations," that are essential to their daily lives. These occupations can range from basic self-care tasks, such as dressing and grooming, to complex activities like returning to work. The work of OTs is particularly important for individuals recovering from injuries, managing chronic conditions, or facing developmental challenges. OTs assess the unique needs of each individual and tailor interventions that promote independence, improve functional abilities, and foster overall well-being.

Greater Regional Health is fortunate to have two full-time OTs on our staff that make an impact every day. Learn a little about our OT's Below:

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Andrea Skellenger, OTD, OTR-L, CLT, CEAS

"Therapy was always an interest to me since I had a family member who had cerebral palsy.  I appreciated how occupational therapy (OT) focused more on "occupation." In high school, I took a class called Health Occupations and became a certified nursing aide, which solidified my desire to become an OT.

I completed my bachelor's degree at Iowa State University, earned my master's in OT from St. Ambrose University, and received my doctorate in OT from Creighton University.

I am also certified in lymphedema, which is tissue swelling caused by an accumulation of protein-rich fluid usually drained through the body's lymphatic system, most commonly affecting the arms or legs.

As a Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist (CEAS), I perform basic ergonomic analyses on various task jobs in office, industrial/manufacturing, and healthcare settings, using OSHA ergonomics assessment tools – W-1, D-2, and WAC.

I am currently working towards completing my Pori- Certified Oncology Rehab Specialist certification to ensure patients receive the best cancer rehabilitation.

As a rural OT, I primarily focus on the adult population since our other OT, Alannah, specializes in children. A typical week at GRH involves treating inpatients in the hospital as they recover. OT helps with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing, toileting, and grooming to facilitate their return home. Between inpatient treatments, I see outpatients who come for injuries to their hands, wrists, and elbows. In our area, I can fabricate splints for post-surgery use. A few times a week, I travel to conduct industrial rehabilitation for employees at local businesses.

The rewards of being an OT include meeting the community and building personal relationships with my patients. Helping them through difficult times and learning from their life lessons and experiences is fulfilling.

At GRH, I have been given many opportunities to continue my education as an OT, pushing me outside of my comfort zone to explore new avenues in the OT field and bringing treatments here that are typically found only in the city."

Alannah Olson, OTD, OTR-L, CEIM

"I decided to pursue a career in occupational therapy because I have a passion for helping people. I always knew that healthcare was the path I wanted to follow, and I particularly enjoyed working with children. During my college years, while volunteering at a local hospital, I was introduced to OT and realized it would be an ideal career for me.

I completed my bachelor's degree at Simpson College and received my doctorate degree at Drake University. I also earned certifications in Infant Massage (CEIM) and Pediatric Yoga. 

My specialty is in pediatrics. I typically work with children who have developmental delays, gross motor delays, fine motor coordination delays, sensory processing issues, emotional regulation delays, autism, and more. I help children develop skills that enable them to be independent in their daily routines by teaching new skills and providing necessary adaptations. I also work on the inpatient floor, treating patients of all ages. In this setting, I assist patients in achieving independence in ADLs and focus on building strength to facilitate their return home. I work with patients recovering from hip and knee surgery to ensure they are ready to safely return home post-surgery.

I enjoy building close relationships with my patients and helping them gain independence and confidence in their daily activities. 

I cherish the positive relationships I've developed with both my patients and colleagues. Greater Regional offers a welcoming environment that I am proud to be a part of."

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OTs continually strive to enhance their techniques and approaches, ensuring that they provide the highest quality of care. By staying informed about the latest research and trends, Occupational Therapists can offer innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of their patients.

Occupational Therapy Awareness Month is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible work that Occupational Therapists do every day. It is a time to recognize their dedication, celebrate their successes, and promote a greater understanding of the profession’s essential role in supporting individuals to lead fulfilling lives.