Do paediatric OTs do home visits?

Home visits from paediatric occupational therapists can be arranged through several pathways. If your child has an NDIS plan, you can use allocated funding for home-based OT services. For those without NDIS support, private clinics may offer home visits at their standard rates plus travel costs. Some community health services also provide home-based OT, though wait times vary by state and region.

Why home visits matter: Assessing your child in their own environment gives occupational therapists a clearer picture of daily routines, sensory triggers, and practical challenges. They can observe how your child manages self-care tasks like dressing and showering, evaluate bedroom and bathroom setups, and recommend specific modifications to your home. This is often more effective than clinic-based assessment alone.

How to access home visits: - Contact paediatric OT clinics directly and ask if they offer mobile services - Check your NDIS plan to confirm OT funding is available - Ask your GP or paediatrician for referrals to clinics offering home-based services - Contact your state's occupational therapy association for provider lists

Costs and funding: Under NDIS, home visit costs are covered within your plan allocation. Private clients typically pay the therapist's standard hourly rate (usually $80–$150) plus travel at the kilometre rate. Some clinics offer telehealth consultations as an alternative if home visits aren't available in your area.

Wait times for home visits can be longer than clinic appointments, particularly in regional areas. If your child needs urgent assessment, ask about clinic-based appointments as an interim option. Always confirm the therapist's qualifications—look for AHPRA registration and relevant paediatric experience.