Trine faculty member leading occupational therapy team at surgeons’ conference

A faculty member in Trine University’s new Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program will lead a team of occupational therapists (OTs) from a national organization to discuss strategies and provide resources to promote emotional well-being and reduce the likelihood of injury for surgeons using robotic technology.

Jamesdean Visley, OTD, associate professor and academic fieldwork coordinator for Trine’s program, chairs the Work and Industry Special Interest Section (WISIS) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

In his role with AOTA, he was tasked with recruiting a well-equipped team of five OTs that will represent the profession at the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) annual meeting, held June 1-4 in Baltimore.

Visley said the ASCRS reached out to AOTA and asked if OT could be represented at their conference.

“They want us to have a booth where we can talk to various surgeons, healthcare organizations, etc. regarding the topics of ergonomic principles, technology, and mental health and wellness,” he said. “Specifically, surgeons are seeking assistance with injury prevention strategies with the increase in utilization of robotic technology for surgeries. We're hoping to be able to provide insight into the ergonomic design and setup of operating rooms and these robotic devices so surgeons will experience less worksite injuries.”

“We're excited to be able to advocate for occupational therapy’s distinct role and value in this area to such a broad group of individuals and key stakeholders in the healthcare realm.”

Trine OTD

Trine will begin accepting applications for its new Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree program in July, with the program launching in May 2025.

The OTD program will be housed in the new Brooks College of Health Professions facility, opening this fall.

The program is designed to prepare students from diverse backgrounds for an occupational therapy career. Any student with a bachelor's degree from an accredited school and a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 can apply.

Trine will offer several 3+3 direct-entry pathways from undergraduate programs on its Angola campus into the OTD program. Such pathways allow students to count their first year in the OTD program toward undergraduate degree completion.

Trine University’s OTD program is in the accreditation process with the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy (ACOTE). The OTD program is in Applicant Status and will submit for Candidacy status in August 2024.

Graduates will be prepared to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination.

For more information about the OTD program, visit trine.edu/otd.