Private Practice Interest Group:
In the mid 1980’s the Private Practitioners Group was founded to enable the small group to discuss issues particular to private practice. It later became an interest group of the WAOTA. Initially, the Group met monthly, but now does not meet formally on a  regular basis. Meetings are only convened in response to urgent issues, put to the PPIG Representatives.

WorkCover:
Annually, the PPIG liaises with WorkCover, to determine the fees for compensable patients. Fees for services are paid at a prescribed rate by insurance companies.

Professional Indemnity Insurance:
Guild Insurance continues to offer professional indemnity insurance to the WA Occupational Therapy Association members at a competitive rate.

Fees for services of private occupational therapists may be partially rebated by private health funds, Government schemes such as Enhanced Primary Care and Department of Veteran’s Affairs.

A consultative committee including representatives from HBF and the Association was set up in ~2005 to negotiate fee scales and discuss issues.

HICAPS/ e-claiming:
The limitations in the codes available for occupational therapists with HICAPS continue to be an issue. In particular, a code for an extended consultation (over 30 mins), and a code for rebates on modalities (eg splints and aids to daily living) has been requested.

Members of the public who are eligible under the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (DVA) scheme may avail themselves of the services of private Occupational Therapists.

The Committee of Management is persisting in its efforts to be given the right to endorse members for the Better Access to Mental Health initiative, so that our members do not have to join another Association.