Description of service

The Rheumatology Occupational Therapy service consists of one full-time senior Occupational Therapist (OT) and one half-time basic grade OT (this is a rotational post). We work with patients to improve or maintain their independence in the areas of self-care, work, paid or unpaid, and leisure.
We assess and treat both out and in-patients referred by the Rheumatology medical team.

Services include

Hand assessment and upper limb splinting.
Assessment of activities of daily living in modern assessment facilities.
Advice and information on aids, equipment and adaptations.
Referral to community OT colleagues.
Foot assessment, and fortnightly clinic for orthotics, insoles and orthopaedic footwear.
Advice and education on joint protection, fatigue management, pacing activities and relaxation techniques.

In addition, the senior OT attends all outpatient clinics, and the young adolescents clinic. The basic grade OT runs a group for patients with fibromyalgia.

Staffing

Jemma Bearman, Senior OT (full time)
Rotational Basic Grade OT (half time)

Service hours

8.30 – 4.30 Monday to Friday

Location

Suite 1, first floor of the outpatients dept and the Allied Therapy Suite

Main Contact Details

Jemma Bearman,
Ext: 4769
Pager: 330
Email: j.bearman@svuh.ie