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2003
ATRA Public Policy Platform Statements
Approved by the ATRA Congress
March 2003

To promote to the rehabilitation industry the affirmation of the appropriate utilization of recreational therapy treatment minutes in satisfying the intensity of screening criteria (3-hour rule) within inpatient comprehensive rehabilitation

To achieve the inclusion of recreational therapy treatment minutes along with the other rehabilitation therapies in the Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 for skilled nursing facilities and to include RT data in section P (rehabilitation services) using “recreational therapy” terminology and the use of ATRA/JCAHO definition for a “qualified recreational therapy assistant”

To affirm recreational therapy’s role within Medicare’s mental health partial hospitalization incremental billing code and coverage criteria.

To identify, monitor, and promote adequate federal funding in higher education settings for the preparation of TR professionals AND support Work Force Initiatives Funding

To identify, monitor, and promote federal funding for efficacy research and outcome-based results in recreational therapy.

To support the passage of mental health insurance parity.

To support the passage of IDEA reauthorization with a greater identification of the role of recreational therapy as a related service.

To revise/reform the qualified provider language for staff performing skilled nursing functions.

To affirm and advocate for recreational therapy’s role within Healthy People 2010 programs and initiatives.

To actively support funding in Department of Education Rehabilitation Services Administration for demonstration projects for recreation programs for individuals with disabilities.

To actively support Medicare coverage for Adult Day Services.

To recognize Recreational Therapy in Medicare Part A inpatient services when medically necessary services are indicated.

• Areas that we continue to monitor
• Medicare Outpatient services
• Distinctions between RT and Activity Services
• Adult Day Care Standards
• Homebound definitions and restrictions
• Stop Stroke legislation
• American Hospital Preservation Act
And the list goes on………..