A new initiative - POTTS (Partnering for Occupational Therapy Telehealth Services ) starting first in Galway and Roscommon, to deliver occupational therapy supports for children aged 8–13 with Dyspraxia/DCD and related needs, has been welcomed at the Regional Health Forum by Cllr Evelyn Parsons.
POTTS (Partnering in Occupational Therapy Telehealth Services ) is a programme that is currently operating on a national basis through Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland in partnership with the University of Limerick (UL ).
With the announcement of funding for this initiative in the West, a working group has been established and includes clinical and management representatives from both Primary Care and Children’s Disability Network teams.
In response to questions from Cllr Evelyn Parsons, the Regional Health Forum was told that the working group will review criteria and access for children on both Primary Care and Community Disability Network Teams waiting lists with regard to DCD- Dyspraxia services. Networks 4, 5, 6 in Galway have been selected as a pilot hub in which to offer this initiative, with plans to roll out this programme across wider hub networks in Roscommon/ East Galway and in Mayo.
“The initial pilot will focus on children from age 8-13 years old. Services will include diagnostic assessments, hand writing assessments, 1:1 interventions, groups and education sessions. Holiday days and various camps will also be offered,” said Anne Cosgrove, Integrated Health Area Manager, Galway Roscommon
An Occupational Therapy led review of waiting lists across both CDNT and Primary Care services is underway to identify children for inclusion in this initiative.
Cllr Parsons said that this initiative is welcome in this area, but added that it speaks to our shortage of staffing.
