Our Experts
Joanne Boothroyd
BSc (Hons)
Neurology, Orthopaedics, Care of the Elderly
Introduction
I qualified from The University of Liverpool in 2002 and have since worked in the field of physical disability. My main area of expertise is neurology, where I began to gain my experience from 2004 in acute and rehabilitation settings. However, during my career I have also worked within various areas including care of the elderly, intermediate care, orthopaedics and rheumatology.
Since 2007, I have worked in my current role as a Senior Occupational therapist. I work with highly complex clients with a variety of neurological conditions including multiple sclerosis, acquired brain injury, stroke, Parkinson’s, GBS and motor neurone disease. I provide holistic assessments, taking into account a client's physical, cognitive and psychological needs, using standardised tools and writing summary reports. Having worked in the community setting since 2004, I have significant experience of assessing clients within the home environment for rehabilitation, equipment, minor adaptations and care. I also supervise junior and support staff, as well as educating students on placement. My recent practice achievements include the development and implementation of a fatigue management education group for people with multiple sclerosis.
My main responsibilities include:
♦ Assessing, developing and providing individualised rehabilitation programmes for neurological patients
♦ Providing a wide range of clinical interventions that include normal movement approaches, splinting, vocational rehabilitation, cognitive rehabilitation, fatigue management education, equipment and adaptation provision and liaising with social services for necessary care packages.
♦ Devising and coordinating service developments for the occupational therapy service within the team
♦ Supervising and undertaking appraisals of junior and support staff
In addition, I undertake medico-legal assignments through Somek and Associates where I accept instructions from both Claimant and Defendant Solicitors and Insurers, to prepare Care and Occupational Therapy reports. I have undergone training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to Expert Witnesses.
Professional Affiliations
British Association of Occupational Therapists
College of Occupational Therapists, Specialist Section- Neurological Practice
Professional Education
Registration Number: Heath Professions Council: OT34876
2011 MSc Professional Development, University of Salford (in progress)
2002 BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy, University of Liverpool