Incorporating occupational therapy group treatment in long-term care

Prompted by recent changes in reimbursement, therapists are pursuing the use of group therapy as a treatment modality in long-term care facilities. Research indicates that group therapy presents significant benefits for both the practitioner and client and is more cost effective than direct one-to-one treatment. Careful planning is critical when implementing group therapy, given the inherent challenges presented. As the government moves toward a capitated system of reimbursement with the advent of the prospective payment system, administrators are searching for more cost-effective treatment methods. Therapists must recognize the emphasis of group dynamics on individual treatment in order to ensure successful outcomes while operating in the interest of cost containment.