Value of occupational therapy assistant education to the profession

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) recognizes the value, necessity, and viability of occupational therapy assistant education. Occupational therapy assistant educational programs meet standards of performance established by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE^®) to produce competent entry-level occupational therapy assistants who are eligible for national certification and state licensure. Occupational therapy assistants work collaboratively with occupational therapists in contributing to the profession's pursuit of providing high-quality, cost-effective services to promote health and wellness by meeting society's occupational needs. Occupational therapy assistant education provides a sound foundation for practice with the development of competent skill sets to fulfill various professional roles within contemporary practice. These roles include direct care provider, educator, manager, leader, and advocate for the profession and the consumer (ACOTE, 2018).