An occupational therapist is usually based in a hospital, social services department or primary care centre. The hospital-based occupational therapist may see you in the occupational therapist department, on the ward, or in the out-patient clinic. Occasionally they may visit you at home. Social services and primary care occupational therapists usually see you at home. You may be referred to a specialist occupational therapist by your consultant rheumatologist (or by another occupational therapist), when you are first diagnosed, or if you have difficulties getting about or managing everyday activities, some rheumatology departments also offer an open system, where patients can request a visit from an occupational therapist. You can approach social services yourself if you are having difficulty managing at home. Read the rest of this entry »