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OTA/OT Partnership/Collaboration Award

The OTA/OT Partnership/Collaboration Award recognizes an outstanding Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) and Occupational Therapist (OT) team whose collaborative practice exemplifies the highest standards of the profession. This award honors partnerships that demonstrate exceptional communication, shared clinical reasoning, and a unified commitment to client-centered, evidence-based care.

Recipients of this award model the power of interprofessional respect within the occupational therapy profession and highlight how strong OTA-OT collaboration enhances outcomes, strengthens service delivery, and elevates the visibility of occupational therapy across Ohio.

This award celebrates teams who go beyond routine collaboration—those who innovate, advocate, educate, and inspire through their partnership.

Selection Criteria

Nominees should demonstrate excellence in two or more of the following areas:

1. Exemplary Collaborative Practice
Demonstrates consistent, effective communication and mutual respect. Shares clinical reasoning, planning, and problem-solving in ways that enhance client outcomes. Shows a clear understanding and appreciation of each partner’s distinct role and scope of practice.

2. Impact on Client Outcomes
Partnership results in measurable or observable improvements in client participation, safety, independence, or quality of life. Demonstrates creative or evidence-based approaches developed or strengthened through collaboration.

3. Advocacy and Professional Leadership
Advocates for the role of OT and OTA practitioners within their setting or community. Promotes ethical, client-centered practice, and models professional integrity. May include involvement in program development, quality improvement, or policy initiatives.

4. Contribution to the Occupational Therapy Community
Supports student learning, fieldwork education, or mentorship of colleagues. Shares knowledge through presentations, in-services, community outreach, or professional engagement. Strengthens the visibility and value of OTA-OT collaboration within Ohio.

5. Innovation and Initiative
Demonstrates creativity in addressing challenges or improving service delivery. Implements new ideas, programs, or processes that reflect the strengths of the partnership.

Eligibility

Nominees must include one OTA and one OT who work collaboratively in any practice setting in Ohio. At least one member of the partnership must be an OOTA member. Partnerships may be nominated by colleagues, supervisors, students, or community partners. One award will be presented each year.

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