What is an occupational therapy assessment?

An occupational therapy assessment is a structured evaluation completed by a qualified OT to understand how a person manages daily tasks and activities. Depending on the purpose, it may examine driving ability, physical and cognitive function, home safety, or the need for specific equipment. The outcome is typically a written report used to inform care planning, funding decisions or licensing requirements.

What types of OT assessments does Drive & Thrive OT offer?

Drive & Thrive OT offers five core assessment services: OT driving assessments, functional capacity assessments, home modification assessments, vehicle modification assessments, and equipment prescription assessments. Each service is delivered by a qualified occupational therapist and supported by a professional written report. Visit each service page for a full breakdown of what is included.

Do I need a referral to book an assessment?

You do not always need a formal referral to book. You can contact us directly and our team will confirm whether a referral from a GP, specialist or support coordinator is required based on your specific situation or funding type. Many clients self-refer, while others are referred by a healthcare team, NDIS planner or family member.

Does Drive & Thrive OT work with NDIS participants?

Yes. We support NDIS participants across all plan management types. Our assessments are commonly requested to support plan reviews, equipment funding applications, home modification approvals and driving goals. Our reports are written to align with current NDIA guidelines and terminology.

What is the difference between an FCA and an OT driving assessment?

A functional capacity assessment (FCA) focuses on how a person manages everyday activities such as self-care, mobility and household tasks, and is commonly used for NDIS and insurance purposes. An OT driving assessment is a specialised review of driving ability, completed on and off road, and used to inform fitness to drive decisions and licensing outcomes. Both are completed by qualified occupational therapists but serve different purposes.

How long do occupational therapy assessments take?

Assessment length varies by type. Driving assessments typically run two to three hours and include an off-road clinical component and an on-road practical drive. Functional capacity assessments may involve two to four hours across one or more sessions. Home modification and equipment assessments generally require a one to two hour in-home visit. We provide a clear outline of timing when you book.

Can Drive & Thrive OT complete assessments at my home?

Yes. Drive & Thrive OT is a mobile service and assessments are completed in your home, local community or another suitable environment wherever possible. Completing assessments in familiar spaces allows our occupational therapists to observe real-world function and make more relevant recommendations. For certain components such as clinical interviews, telehealth may also be appropriate.

Which funding sources does Drive & Thrive OT accept?

We work with a range of funding sources, including the NDIS, My Aged Care, Home Care Packages, icare, workers compensation, DVA and private or family-funded arrangements. We will confirm fees, funding compatibility and billing processes before your assessment is scheduled so there are no surprises.

How do I get a quote before booking?

Contact our team by phone or through the online enquiry form. Once we understand your situation, the type of assessment needed and your funding source, we will provide a clear quote before anything is confirmed. We aim to make costs transparent from the outset so you can plan with confidence.

How do I book an occupational therapy assessment with Drive & Thrive OT?

The easiest way to book is to submit an enquiry through our online form or call us directly. Our team will ask a few brief questions about your situation, confirm the right assessment type and arrange a time that suits you. If you have an existing referral from a GP, specialist or support coordinator, have it ready when you get in touch.

Supporting safety, independence, and daily function at home and in the community.

Equipment Prescription Assessments Across Greater Western Sydney

The walking frame is in the hallway but you avoid using it. The shower chair doesn’t fit the shower. Getting the right equipment starts with the right assessment. Drive & Thrive OT provides occupational therapy equipment prescription assessments across Greater Western Sydney.

THE DRIVE & THRIVE DIFFERENCE

OT-Prescribed Equipment That Actually Fits Your Life

Assistive technology works when it is matched to the right person, in the right environment, for the right tasks. A shower chair that fits one bathroom may be unsafe in another. A mobility aid suited to a flat footpath may be wrong for someone navigating their home.

Drive & Thrive OT delivers equipment prescription assessments across Greater Western Sydney, completing assessments in the home and community environments where the equipment will actually be used. Our OT reports support NDIS, My Aged Care, icare, DVA and private funding applications. Enquire today to discuss your situation.

HOW WE HELP

Practical Equipment Assessments From Prescription to Report

In-home equipment assessment

We assess how you manage daily tasks in your own home, identify where equipment may help, and trial options where possible before making a recommendation.

Evidence-based prescription

Equipment recommendations are matched to your physical capacity, your home environment and your daily routine, not to a catalogue or a general clinical profile.

Supplier coordination

Where helpful, we liaise with trusted suppliers to arrange equipment trials or product quotes so you are confident before anything is purchased or funded.

Funding-ready OT reports

Our written reports are structured to meet the requirements of the NDIS, My Aged Care, icare, DVA and other funding bodies, with clear prescriptions and clinical justifications.

ABOUT THIS SERVICE

What Is an Equipment Prescription Assessment?

An equipment prescription assessment is an occupational therapy evaluation that looks at how a person manages daily tasks and identifies assistive technology that may support greater safety, comfort and independence.

Your occupational therapist assesses your physical function, observes how you move and manage activities in your own environment, and matches equipment recommendations to what your body actually needs and what your home can accommodate. This is not a product recommendation from a catalogue. It is a clinical evaluation based on how you live.

The assessment results in a written OT report prescribing specific equipment items, with clinical justifications, product specifications and costings where required. This report is used to support funding applications through the NDIS, My Aged Care, icare, DVA or other providers, or to guide private equipment purchases.

IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?

When to Consider an Equipment Prescription Assessment

An equipment prescription assessment may be relevant if:

Daily tasks such as showering, toileting, transfers or getting in and out of bed are becoming harder or unsafe
You have had a fall, a hospital admission, surgery or a new diagnosis and need to set up your home for recovery or long-term function
Equipment you already have is no longer the right fit as your needs change
The NDIS requires an OT assessment and report before approving assistive technology funding

You are on a My Aged Care or Home Care Package and need an OT recommendation to access equipment funding
Your GP, specialist, discharge planner or support coordinator has recommended an equipment review
You want to stay living at home and need to understand what equipment may make that safer and more sustainable

If you are unsure whether an equipment assessment applies to you, give us a call. We will help you work it out.

WHAT WE PRESCRIBE

Equipment and Assistive Technology Drive & Thrive OT Can Assess

Our equipment prescription assessments cover a wide range of assistive technology categories, including:

THE PROCESS

How the Equipment Prescription Process Works

We aim to make every step clear and manageable, from your first enquiry to your final OT report.

OUR CLIENTS

Who Drive & Thrive OT Works With

Our equipment prescription assessments support a wide range of people, including:

HOW TO ACCESS OUR SERVICES

Funding and Referral Options

Drive & Thrive OT works with a range of funding sources for equipment prescription assessments, including:

NDIS (self-managed, plan-managed and NDIA-managed participants)
icare and workers compensation
Private health insurance, where applicable
DVA and aged care providers
Privately funded and family-funded arrangements
My Aged Care and Home Care Packages, where applicable

Our team will confirm which funding pathway applies to your situation before any assessment is scheduled.

Service Area

Servicing Greater Western Sydney and Surrounding Areas

Drive & Thrive OT delivers vehicle modification assessments across:

Assessments are completed in your home or the relevant environment wherever possible, so recommendations are based on how you actually live and move.

OUR APPROACH

Why Clients Choose Drive & Thrive OT for Equipment Prescriptions

Assessments completed in your home, so recommendations reflect your actual environment, not a showroom

Equipment matched to your body, your tasks and your space, not to a standard product list

Trusted relationships with reputable suppliers across Western Sydney for trials and product support

Clear, well-justified OT reports written to meet NDIS, My Aged Care, icare and DVA requirements

Transparent quoting before any assessment is confirmed, with no hidden costs

A practical focus on real-world independence, not just ticking a compliance box

FAQ

Frequently asked Questions

What is an OT equipment prescription assessment?

An OT equipment prescription assessment is a structured evaluation completed by an occupational therapist to identify assistive technology that may support your safety, comfort and independence. Your OT assesses your physical function, observes how you manage daily tasks in your home, and prescribes specific equipment matched to your body, your environment and your goals. The outcome is a written report used to support funding applications or guide private purchases.

Does the NDIS require an OT report for assistive technology?

For most mid-cost and high-cost assistive technology, the NDIS requires an OT assessment and written report to support funding requests. Low-cost items may not need a formal report, but an OT review is still worthwhile to confirm you are choosing the right product. Drive & Thrive OT writes NDIS-aligned equipment prescription reports that clearly justify each recommended item against your functional goals and support needs.

What types of equipment can an OT prescribe?

Occupational therapists can prescribe a wide range of assistive technology, including mobility aids such as walking frames and wheelchairs, transfer equipment such as hoists and slings, bathroom aids including shower chairs and commodes, bedroom equipment such as adjustable beds and pressure care mattresses, specialised seating and postural supports, and daily living aids for tasks such as dressing and meal preparation. Your OT will assess which items are appropriate for your specific situation.

Can I just buy equipment without an OT assessment?

You can purchase equipment independently, but an OT assessment reduces the risk of choosing something that does not fit your body, your home or your tasks. Poorly fitted equipment can be unsafe or go unused. For NDIS and My Aged Care funding, an OT report is usually required before mid or high-cost items are approved. An assessment also gives you access to product trials so you can try before committing.

How long does an equipment prescription assessment take?

Most assessments involve a one to two hour in-home visit. This covers a review of your medical history and daily routine, observation of how you manage relevant tasks, and a discussion of potential equipment options. If supplier trials or additional visits are needed to assess complex items such as specialised seating or hoists, your OT will explain the timeline when you book. Written reports are generally completed within two to four weeks.

Will you help me trial equipment before recommending it?

Yes, where possible. Drive & Thrive OT works with trusted suppliers across Greater Western Sydney to arrange equipment trials so you can assess fit, comfort and usability before any item is purchased or funded. This is particularly important for higher-cost items such as power wheelchairs, hoists and pressure care systems, where fit matters significantly. Your OT will discuss which items can be trialled during the assessment process.

Can Drive & Thrive OT provide an equipment assessment for My Aged Care?

Yes. We support older adults accessing equipment through My Aged Care and Home Care Packages. An OT equipment assessment can help you make the most of your package by identifying the right items to support safe, independent living at home. Your provider or case manager can refer directly, or you can enquire with our team to discuss eligibility and the assessment process.

Do I need a referral to book an equipment prescription assessment?

Not always. You can contact Drive & Thrive OT directly and our team will confirm whether a referral is needed based on your funding type or situation. Many clients self-refer or enquire on behalf of a family member, while others are referred by a GP, specialist, support coordinator or discharge planner. If you have an existing referral, have it ready when you call.

How do I book an equipment prescription assessment in Greater Western Sydney?

Call Drive & Thrive OT or complete the online enquiry form with a brief description of your situation, your funding source and the type of equipment you may need. Our team will confirm the right assessment scope, explain the fees and timing, and schedule a home visit at a time that suits you. We aim to make the process straightforward from the very first contact.

Book Your Equipment Prescription Assessment Today!

Whether you are navigating NDIS funding, setting up your home after a hospital discharge, or simply trying to find equipment that works for your life, our team will walk you through the right assessment and the right pathway before anything is confirmed.

Call Drive & Thrive OT or enquire online to get started.