LEGISTATIVE UPDATE 2024 ADVOCACY YEAR-IN-REVIEW
LEGISTATIVE UPDATE 2024 ADVOCACY YEAR-IN-REVIEW
ILOTA LOBBYIST : BRIAN WOJCICKI
In addition to directly influencing state regulatory policy at the state capitol , ILOTA provides regular opportunities to cultivate advocacy skills and grow within the Illinois occupational therapy community .
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making our November 2024 ILOTA Annual Conference a huge success .
ILOTA education also continues into 2025 with the next opportunity being the Electrical and Thermal Therapeutic Modalities Course in January ( click here to learn more and register ).
By tracking , analyzing , and influencing state legislation and regulations , ILOTA ensures our profession is protected . Learn more about how 2024 legislation impacted occupational therapy .
Scope of Practice Legislation
Effective January 1 , 2024 , the occupational therapy profession was ensured continued licensure recognition in the state of Illinois as a result of Public Act 103-251 .
Beyond reauthorization , this legislation introduced several significant updates aimed at modernizing and expanding the scope of occupational therapy ( OT ) practice in Illinois . Below are the key changes :
• Direct Access : One of the most notable updates is the provision for direct access , which allows licensed occupational therapists ( OTs ) and occupational therapy assistants ( OTAs ) to evaluate and treat patients without needing a referral from a physician or other healthcare provider ; this applies to general OT services as well as specific environments like school-based or educational settings , with OTA scope of practice and non-progress referrals being reviewed for possible further legislation .
• Referral Requirements : While direct access is permitted , there are specific conditions under which an
OT must refer a patient back to a healthcare professional . This includes situations where there is no measurable improvement after 10 visits or 15 business days , when a patient returns for the same or similar condition within 30 days after discharge , or if the OT determines the patient ’ s condition is beyond their scope of practice .
• Updated Terminology : The Act now incorporates gender-neutral language throughout . Additionally ,
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