Hermano Miguel is an outpatient clinic that has been around for approximately 25 years. The services offered include PT, OT, SLP, massage therapy, chiropractor, and a general family physician. THey are currently in the process of building a new clinic on the site.
The majority of the OT´s patients are adults, however, she does see a few children as well. The typical diagnoses that the occupational therapist treats include CP, CVA, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and developmental delays.
We have had a great oppurtunity to see the differences and similarities between OT here in Ecuador versus OT in the U.S. One difference that we have discovered is that they focus more on a biomechanical (PT) model of practice rather than a more holistic functional approach. One similiarity we found that was encouraging to see was the emphasis on building/having a relationship between therapist and patient.
A couple highlights from the last week that we would like to mention are as follows:
- After spending a few sessions with one man, we finally were able to find out what was meaningful to him. After he revealed that he likes to play cards, we were then able to incorporate this into his therapy. He loved being able to do something he really enjoyed. It was also great for us to see him smile and enjoying his therapy session.
- A connection we made with another patient who had sustained a brain injury was that he really liked numbers. He had previously worked with numbers prior to his accident. We suggested that he try Sudoku to stimulate his brain, and to give him another activity to do instead of spending time watching tv. In addition, this activity gave the OT and us an idea of what his performance level and cognitive level is. He really enjoyed this activity, and again it was rewarding for us to see his positive response to our suggestion.
We hope all is well with everyone at home! Thanks,
Amanda and Kelsey
