2005 West Virginia Code - §30-28-3. — Definitions.

§30-28-3. Definitions.

In this article, the following terms shall have the respective meanings provided in this section unless the context clearly requires a different meaning:
(a) "Association" means the West Virginia occupational therapy association.
(b) "Board" means the West Virginia board of occupational therapy.
(c) "License" means a valid and current certificate of registration issued by the West Virginia board of occupational therapy.
(d) "Occupational therapy" means the evaluation, treatment and aid in diagnosis of problems interfering with functional performance in persons impaired by physical illness or injury, emotional disorder, congenital or developmental disability, or the aging process in order to achieve optimum functioning and for prevention and health maintenance. Specific occupational therapy services include, but are not limited to, activities of daily living (ADL); the design, fabrication and application of splints; sensorimotor activities; the use of specifically designed crafts; guidance in the selection and use of adaptive equipment; therapeutic activities to enhance functional performance; prevocational evaluation and training; and consultation concerning the adaption of physical environments for the handicapped. These services are provided to individuals or groups through medical, health, educational and social systems and for the maintenance of health through these systems.
(e) "Occupational therapist" means a person licensed to practice occupational therapy as defined in this article, and whose license is in good standing.
(f) "Occupational therapy assistant" means a person licensed to assist in the practice of occupational therapy under the general supervision of the licensed occupational therapist, and whose license is in good standing. As contained in this section, the term "general supervision" means initial direction and periodic inspection of the actual activities; however, the supervising licensed occupational therapist need not always be physically present or on the premises when the licensed assistant is performing services.
(g) "Occupational therapy aide" means a person who assists in the practice of occupational therapy, who works under the direct supervision of an occupational therapist and the occupational therapy assistant, and whose activities require an understanding of occupational therapy but do not require professional or advanced training in the basic anatomical, biological, psychological and social sciences involved in the practice of occupational therapy. As contained in this section, the term "direct supervision" shall mean the actual physical presence of a licensed occupational therapist or licensed occupational therapy assistant.