Pandemic-Proof OT Tool Kit

As the next de-escalation of community quarantine is scheduled tomorrow, I look back on the things that have come handy for me in surviving the past 3+ months. Here is my list:

Finance

• Emergency Fund– This should be easily accessible and worth at least 3 to 6 months of living expenses. New OTs should save up for this first.
• Cash– A portion of the emergency fund tucked safely at home and can be retrieved for a quick grocery run or essential visit to the pharmacy.
• Debit and Credit Cards– These are important when it is difficult to withdraw money from ATMs but you have to procure goods. Major convenience stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies accept them.
• Online Banking and E-wallets– Aside from using them to buy products online and pay bills, they also help in monitoring cashflow and enable contactless payments for therapy services.

Technology

• Smartphone– To contact loved ones, workplace, and clients. Essential apps for work from home scheme can be downloaded here as well.
• Tablet/Computer– Where folders of clients’ records, therapy materials, and journal articles are stored. This is where reports are typed and video-calls are made.
• Internet Connection– This should be stable enough to handle video-conferencing, chats, and emails. It can be in the form of wifi or prepaid internet.

Therapy Materials

• Worksheets– Of varied types and for different goals. Can be accessed easily and sent as appropriate.
• Toys- This is the time that hoarding toys on sale has finally paid off as therapists now use toys they have at home for demonstration to their telepractice clients.
• Subscriptions– May it be updated membership to the professional organization who provide practice guidelines and continuing education webinars or subscribing to websites that offer worksheets and other treatment ideas.

Insurance

• Health Insurance– You should know your coverage and the nearest hospitals or clinics that are accredited. Make sure that PhilHealth premiums are updated.
• Life Insurance– Double-check if you have riders such as Hospital Income and Critical Illness benefits.

Essentials

• Contact Details– Of emergency responders, family, loved ones, workplace, flatmates, broker, rental owner.
• Food– Have a stockpile of healthy food to limit household members from repeatedly going out just to buy groceries.
• Water– Bulk order purified water.
• Medicine– Medicines for common ailments, vitamins, supplements and maintenance meds.
• First Aid Kit– For minor cuts and wounds.
• Hygience and Cleaning Supplies– Tissue paper, wet wipes, soaps, alcohol, sanitizers, detergents, and disinfectants.
• Personal Protective Equipment– Masks when going out of the house and gloves (as appropriate).

Emotional and Spiritual Needs

• Gratitude– Be thankful for everything and everyone.
• Positive Thoughts– Always look at the bright side of the situation.
• Laughter– Give and receive smiles.
• Love– Always.
• Prayers– We have an unlimited God and an abundant universe.