OT Abbreviations: Your Therapy Guide Decoded

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) standards emphasize clear communication across all practice settings. Such interprofessional communication often relies on occupational therapy medical abbreviations, a shorthand crucial for efficient documentation and collaboration. The use of these abbreviations is thoroughly detailed within electronic health records (EHRs) where therapists record patient progress. Within a rehabilitation center, understanding common abbreviations ensures that healthcare providers, including notable figures like occupational therapists specializing in hand therapy, can quickly grasp patient information, thereby supporting optimal care delivery.

Decoding the Alphabet Soup of Occupational Therapy: Why Understanding Abbreviations Matters

Occupational Therapy, like much of the healthcare field, is awash in a sea of abbreviations. From everyday clinical notes to complex research papers, these shorthand notations are ubiquitous. They’re so common, in fact, that newcomers to the field can feel like they’re trying to decipher a secret code.

But understanding these abbreviations isn’t just about fitting in. It’s about ensuring patient safety, maintaining legal compliance, and practicing effective communication. This editorial delves into the critical role abbreviations play in OT and why mastering them is essential for all practitioners and students.

The Pervasive World of OT Abbreviations

The use of abbreviations is deeply entrenched in healthcare. It’s driven by the need for efficiency in documenting patient information and communicating across disciplines. In OT, you’ll encounter abbreviations related to:

• Anatomical terms: (e.g., UE for Upper Extremity, LE for Lower Extremity).
• Intervention techniques: (e.g., NDT for Neuro-Developmental Treatment, CIMT for Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy).
• Assessment tools: (e.g., MMT for Manual Muscle Testing, FIM for Functional Independence Measure).

This widespread use, while intended to streamline processes, can also create confusion.

Why Accuracy is Non-Negotiable

The consequences of misinterpreting or misusing abbreviations can be significant.

• Patient Safety: An incorrect abbreviation could lead to a misunderstanding of a patient’s condition or treatment plan, potentially resulting in adverse outcomes. This is the most critical concern.

• Legal and Ethical Implications: Inaccurate or ambiguous documentation can have legal repercussions. It can also violate ethical standards related to patient care and professional responsibility.

• Clear Communication: Effective communication is the bedrock of collaborative healthcare. A misunderstanding due to abbreviations can hinder effective collaboration among healthcare professionals.

• Reimbursement Issues: Using the wrong abbreviations in billing documentation can lead to claim denials. This leads to financial losses for the facility or practice.

Who Needs This Guide?

This editorial is intended for a broad audience within the occupational therapy community. It is specifically geared towards:

• Occupational Therapists (OTRs): Practicing OTs need to stay current on accepted abbreviations and their proper usage. They must also be able to interpret abbreviations used by others effectively.

• Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs): COTAs play a vital role in implementing treatment plans and documenting patient progress. A strong understanding of abbreviations is critical for accurate and safe practice under the supervision of an OTR.

• OT and OTA Students: For students entering the field, mastering OT abbreviations is a fundamental skill. It’s important for success in both academic and clinical settings.

By providing clarity and guidance on abbreviation use, this article strives to empower all members of the OT community to practice with confidence and precision.

Key Organizations Shaping OT Terminology

Decoding the Alphabet Soup of Occupational Therapy: Why Understanding Abbreviations Matters. Occupational Therapy, like much of the healthcare field, is awash in a sea of abbreviations. From everyday clinical notes to complex research papers, these shorthand notations are ubiquitous. They’re so common, in fact, that newcomers to the field can feel like they’re deciphering a completely new language.

The standardization—or lack thereof—of these abbreviations is heavily influenced by several key organizations. These entities set the standards, provide guidelines, and, in some cases, enforce the legal requirements that govern how we communicate within the profession. Let’s delve into the roles of these influential bodies.

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): Setting the Standard

AOTA is arguably the most influential organization for OTs in the United States.

AOTA’s role extends far beyond membership; it actively shapes the standards and ethical guidelines that practitioners must follow.

AOTA provides practice guidelines, position papers, and official documents that recommend specific terminology and, by extension, acceptable abbreviations. These resources serve as a cornerstone for ensuring consistent and effective communication across the profession.

However, AOTA’s guidelines are not legally binding unless adopted by state regulatory boards or facility policies. This means that while AOTA sets a strong precedent, individual states and institutions have the autonomy to establish their own specific requirements.

World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT): A Global Perspective

WFOT plays a pivotal role in establishing globally recognized standards for OT practice.

WFOT promotes standardized terminology to facilitate international collaboration and understanding. WFOT bridges cultural and linguistic gaps, promoting a unified approach to OT practice worldwide.

Its influence is particularly relevant in a globalized healthcare landscape where practitioners may work across borders or collaborate with international colleagues.

WFOT encourages the use of common abbreviations that are easily understood across different languages and healthcare systems, fostering clear communication and minimizing the risk of misinterpretation.

State Occupational Therapy Regulatory Boards: The Force of Law

While AOTA and WFOT offer guidance, state regulatory boards have the power to enforce standards through law.

These boards are responsible for licensing and regulating OT practitioners within their respective states. They often adopt AOTA guidelines or create their own specific regulations regarding documentation and terminology.

Non-compliance with these state-mandated rules can lead to disciplinary actions, including fines or even license suspension. Therefore, practitioners must be acutely aware of their state board’s regulations concerning the use of abbreviations and terminology.

National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT): Validating Competence

NBCOT is the organization responsible for certifying OTs and COTAs in the United States.

The NBCOT exam assesses candidates’ knowledge of OT principles, including their understanding of common abbreviations and terminology. A strong performance on the NBCOT exam is essential for demonstrating competence and securing employment in the field.

By testing candidates on standardized terminology, NBCOT ensures that newly certified practitioners possess a foundational understanding of the abbreviations used in OT practice.

The Joint Commission: Impact on Healthcare Facilities

The Joint Commission is an independent, not-for-profit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs in the United States.

Its accreditation standards significantly influence documentation practices within hospitals and healthcare facilities.

The Joint Commission emphasizes the importance of clear, concise, and standardized communication to promote patient safety and reduce the risk of medical errors. This emphasis extends to the use of abbreviations.

Accredited facilities often have specific policies outlining acceptable and prohibited abbreviations to ensure consistent and safe documentation practices. OTs working in these settings must adhere to these policies to maintain compliance with accreditation standards.

In conclusion, understanding the roles and influences of these key organizations is paramount for any OT practitioner. By staying informed about their guidelines, regulations, and standards, OTs and COTAs can navigate the complex world of abbreviations with confidence and competence, ultimately contributing to safer and more effective patient care.

Core Concepts and Common Abbreviations in OT Practice

Building upon the foundational understanding of key organizations and their influence on OT terminology, it’s crucial to delve into the core concepts that underpin daily practice. These concepts are frequently abbreviated in documentation, treatment plans, and interprofessional communication. Understanding these shorthand notations is critical for effective and accurate OT service delivery.

Occupational Performance: The Heart of OT

Occupational Performance is at the very core of occupational therapy. It refers to an individual’s ability to engage in meaningful activities that occupy their time and attention.

These activities span self-care, work, leisure, and social participation. The assessment of occupational performance often involves standardized tests, clinical observations, and client interviews.

Abbreviations related to occupational performance might include:

• OP: Occupational Performance (General).
• PEO: Person-Environment-Occupation model.
• COPM: Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (a common assessment tool).

These abbreviations, especially within documentation, quickly convey the focus of intervention. They highlight the therapist’s attention to the client’s ability to participate in everyday life.

ADLs and IADLs: Building Blocks of Independence

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are fundamental concepts in OT. They represent the building blocks of independence and are frequently addressed in therapy.

ADLs refer to basic self-care tasks such as:

• Bathing.
• Dressing.
• Eating.
• Toileting.

IADLs are more complex activities that enable an individual to live independently in the community, such as:

• Meal preparation.
• Managing finances.
• Transportation.
• Home maintenance.

These concepts are almost universally abbreviated as ADLs and IADLs in patient care plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries. Understanding the distinction between the two is crucial for accurately documenting a patient’s functional abilities.

The EHR Revolution (and its Abbreviation Implications)

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have significantly impacted the standardization, and sometimes the confusion, of abbreviations in healthcare.

While EHRs offer the potential to standardize terminology through drop-down menus and pre-populated fields, they can also introduce inconsistencies.

Different EHR systems may use different abbreviations for the same concept. Further, clinicians may still use non-standard abbreviations within free-text fields. It is imperative to adhere to facility-specific guidelines for abbreviation use within the EHR.

Deconstructing the SOAP Note

The SOAP note is a widely used documentation format in healthcare, including occupational therapy. The acronym stands for:

• Subjective: What the patient reports.
• Objective: Measurable and observable data.
• Assessment: The therapist’s interpretation of the data.
• Plan: The intervention plan.

SOAP notes are inherently abbreviation-heavy. For instance, documenting range of motion (ROM), muscle strength (MMT – Manual Muscle Testing), or edema measurements frequently uses abbreviations.

Understanding how to concisely and accurately convey information within the SOAP format is a core skill for all OTs and COTAs.

HIPAA: Protecting Privacy in the Age of Abbreviations

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a cornerstone of patient privacy. It dictates how protected health information (PHI) must be handled.

While HIPAA itself is an abbreviation, it is critical to consider its implications for all aspects of documentation, including the use of abbreviations.

Using non-standard or ambiguous abbreviations could potentially compromise patient privacy if misinterpreted. Always prioritize clarity and adhere to facility policies to ensure HIPAA compliance.

CPT and ICD Codes: Navigating the Billing Landscape

Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes and International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes are essential for billing and reimbursement in occupational therapy.

CPT codes describe the specific services provided by the OT.

ICD codes classify the patient’s diagnosis or condition.

While OTs and COTAs may not be directly responsible for assigning these codes (often the domain of billing specialists), understanding their meaning and relevance is crucial. This enables them to accurately document the services provided and justify the need for OT intervention.

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): Informing Your Abbreviation Use

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) is the conscientious use of current best evidence in making decisions about patient care. OTs and COTAs must continually update their knowledge and skills by engaging in EBP.

This includes understanding the terminology and abbreviations used in research articles, clinical guidelines, and systematic reviews. A commitment to EBP ensures that OT services are effective, efficient, and aligned with the latest scientific findings.

In conclusion, proficiency in understanding and utilizing common abbreviations is paramount for effective and ethical OT practice. By mastering these core concepts and their abbreviated forms, OTs and COTAs can ensure clear communication, accurate documentation, and ultimately, optimal patient outcomes.

Responsibilities of Healthcare Professionals in Abbreviation Use

Building upon the foundational understanding of key organizations and their influence on OT terminology, it’s crucial to delve into the core concepts that underpin daily practice. These concepts are frequently abbreviated in documentation, treatment plans, and interprofessional communication. Understanding who is accountable for correct usage, and the ethical considerations that accompany this, is paramount for safe and effective practice.

The responsibility for accurate and appropriate use of abbreviations within occupational therapy falls on all healthcare professionals involved in patient care, albeit with nuanced distinctions based on their roles and qualifications. Occupational Therapists (OTRs), Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs), and students (both OT and OTA) each have distinct responsibilities that must be understood and upheld to ensure patient safety and legal compliance.

Defining Roles and Responsibilities

Each member of the OT team carries unique responsibilities regarding abbreviation use. These responsibilities stem from their education, scope of practice, and the supervisory structure within which they operate. A clear understanding of these roles is essential for maintaining consistent, accurate, and ethical documentation.

Occupational Therapist (OTR): Responsible Use and Interpretation

The Occupational Therapist (OTR) bears the primary responsibility for the appropriate use and interpretation of abbreviations in all aspects of patient care. This encompasses initial evaluations, treatment planning, progress notes, and discharge summaries.

OTRs are expected to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of both standard and facility-specific abbreviations. They must ensure that all abbreviations used in their documentation are clear, unambiguous, and in accordance with established guidelines.

Furthermore, OTRs are responsible for interpreting abbreviations used by other healthcare professionals and clarifying any uncertainties to prevent misunderstandings that could compromise patient safety. They are also responsible for educating and supervising COTAs and students on the correct usage of abbreviations.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA): Adhering to Supervisory Guidelines

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) play a vital role in the delivery of occupational therapy services. Under the supervision of an OTR, COTAs contribute to patient care by implementing treatment plans, documenting patient progress, and communicating with the healthcare team.

While COTAs do not have the same level of independent responsibility as OTRs, they are still accountable for the accurate and appropriate use of abbreviations in their documentation and communication.

COTAs must adhere to supervisory guidelines and ensure that they understand the meaning of all abbreviations used in patient records. Any uncertainties or ambiguities should be clarified with the supervising OTR. Additionally, COTAs have a responsibility to communicate effectively with the OTR regarding any changes in patient status or treatment outcomes, using clear and concise language that minimizes the potential for misinterpretation.

Students (OT and OTA): Learning and Applying Abbreviations Appropriately

Occupational Therapy (OT) and Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) students are in a learning phase, and their responsibilities regarding abbreviation use are primarily focused on acquiring knowledge and developing competency.

Students must actively engage in learning standard and facility-specific abbreviations, seeking clarification from instructors and clinical supervisors as needed. They are expected to apply their knowledge of abbreviations appropriately in academic assignments and clinical documentation, always prioritizing clarity and accuracy.

Students must always operate under the direct supervision of a licensed OTR or COTA. They should be encouraged to ask questions and seek guidance when unsure about the meaning or appropriate use of any abbreviation. Students should also be educated on the potential consequences of misinterpreting abbreviations and the importance of ethical and legal compliance.

Accountability and Ethical Considerations

Beyond the defined roles, accountability for correct abbreviation usage is tied to the core ethical principles of healthcare. Beneficence (doing good), non-maleficence (doing no harm), autonomy (respecting patient rights), and justice (fairness) all necessitate careful and considered use of abbreviations.

Failure to use abbreviations correctly can have serious consequences, including:

• Compromised Patient Safety: Misinterpreted abbreviations can lead to errors in medication administration, treatment implementation, and overall patient care.

• Legal Ramifications: Inaccurate or incomplete documentation can expose healthcare professionals and facilities to legal liability.

• Erosion of Trust: Errors in communication can damage the trust between healthcare professionals and patients, as well as among members of the healthcare team.

All OT professionals are held to a high standard of ethical conduct outlined by the AOTA. This includes accurate and truthful documentation, protecting patient confidentiality, and ensuring that all communication is clear and unambiguous. Prioritizing patient safety, committing to ongoing learning, and fostering a culture of open communication are essential for maintaining ethical and effective OT practice.

Navigating the Abbreviation Maze: Essential Resources

Building upon the responsibilities of healthcare professionals in proper abbreviation use, it’s now imperative to explore the essential resources that can aid in deciphering the often-complex language of occupational therapy documentation. This section provides a curated list of these resources, along with guidance on how to utilize them effectively and critically. Mastering these resources is a crucial step in ensuring accurate communication and safe patient care.

Essential Resources for Decoding OT Abbreviations

Navigating the world of OT abbreviations requires a multi-faceted approach, drawing upon various sources of information. Relying on a single source can be limiting and potentially lead to inaccuracies. Therefore, a comprehensive toolkit is essential.

AOTA Official Documents: The Gold Standard

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) provides invaluable resources, including official documents, guidelines, and position papers. These materials often contain definitions and recommended terminology for common OT abbreviations. These are considered the gold standard in abbreviation usage. Utilizing AOTA resources ensures adherence to professional standards and best practices.

Medical Dictionaries: Clarifying Unfamiliar Terms

Medical dictionaries, both print and online, are indispensable tools for deciphering unfamiliar terms and abbreviations encountered in OT practice. A reliable medical dictionary can provide clear and concise definitions, helping to avoid misinterpretations. It’s important to choose a reputable dictionary and to verify the source of the information.

Hospital/Clinic-Specific Policies: Adhering to Facility Standards

Many hospitals and clinics have established policies regarding the use of abbreviations in documentation and communication. These policies are crucial for maintaining consistency and avoiding confusion within the facility. Always consult your facility’s policies before using any abbreviation, and adhere strictly to their guidelines. Deviation from these policies can have legal and ethical implications.

EHR System Help Guides: Leveraging Built-In Features

Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems often include built-in features to assist with understanding abbreviations. These systems may provide definitions when hovering over an abbreviation or include a glossary of terms. Familiarize yourself with the EHR system’s help guides and utilize these features to clarify any uncertainties. However, always verify information obtained from the EHR system with other reliable sources.

Online Resources: Proceed with Caution

The internet offers a vast array of information about medical abbreviations. However, it’s essential to exercise caution when using online resources. Not all online sources are reliable or accurate. Prioritize websites from reputable organizations, such as AOTA, medical schools, or government agencies. Cross-reference information from multiple sources before relying on it. Be wary of user-generated content, such as forums or blogs, as these may contain inaccurate or outdated information.

Best Practices for Effective Resource Utilization

Accessing resources is only half the battle; utilizing them effectively is equally crucial. Several best practices can enhance the value of these tools.

Cross-Referencing Information

Never rely solely on a single resource. Always cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy and completeness. Compare definitions from different medical dictionaries, check facility policies against AOTA guidelines, and verify online information with reputable sources.

Critical Evaluation of Sources

Not all resources are created equal. Develop your ability to critically evaluate the sources of information. Consider the author’s credentials, the publication date, and the potential for bias. Prioritize sources that are peer-reviewed, evidence-based, and aligned with current OT practice guidelines.

Maintaining a Personal Abbreviation Log

Keep a personal log of abbreviations you encounter that are unfamiliar or unclear. Note the definition, the source, and the context in which the abbreviation was used. This log can serve as a valuable reference tool for future encounters with these abbreviations.

Continuous Learning

The field of occupational therapy is constantly evolving, and new abbreviations are frequently introduced. Commit to continuous learning and stay up-to-date on the latest terminology and guidelines. Attend continuing education courses, read professional journals, and participate in online forums to expand your knowledge base.

The Ripple Effect: Consequences of Misinterpreted Abbreviations

Building upon the essential resources needed in deciphering abbreviations, it’s now crucial to address the potential fallout from misinterpreting these shorthand notations. The incorrect understanding of abbreviations can trigger a cascade of negative effects, influencing patient well-being, legal accountabilities, and the effectiveness of interprofessional collaboration. This section will explore these critical implications.

Patient Safety Under Threat

Perhaps the most alarming consequence of misinterpreting abbreviations is the direct threat it poses to patient safety. In a field where precision is paramount, a misunderstanding can lead to errors in medication, therapy implementation, or even diagnostic interpretation.

A simple mix-up between "bid" (twice a day) and "tid" (three times a day) in medication orders, for instance, can have serious pharmacological implications, potentially leading to adverse reactions or therapeutic ineffectiveness.

Similarly, mistaking "ROM" (range of motion) limitations for "AROM" (active range of motion) during therapy planning could result in inappropriate interventions, potentially exacerbating a patient’s condition.

Navigating Legal and Ethical Minefields

Inaccurate documentation, stemming from misinterpreted abbreviations, can create significant legal and ethical challenges. Occupational therapists bear the responsibility of maintaining precise and comprehensive patient records.

Ambiguous or incorrect abbreviations can jeopardize the integrity of these records, leading to potential legal liabilities. Cases involving medical malpractice or negligence often hinge on the clarity and accuracy of documentation.

Furthermore, ethical guidelines dictate that therapists must ensure the welfare of their patients. Misinterpretations that compromise patient care can constitute ethical breaches, subjecting therapists to disciplinary actions.

The Breakdown of Interprofessional Communication

Effective collaboration among healthcare professionals depends on clear and consistent communication. Misinterpreted abbreviations can introduce significant barriers to this collaboration, leading to misunderstandings and potentially compromising patient outcomes.

If a physician, nurse, or other allied health professional misinterprets an abbreviation used by an occupational therapist, it can disrupt the continuity of care. This can result in conflicting treatment plans, delayed interventions, or, at worst, harmful errors.

For instance, if the note reads “Pt. mod indep. w/ SBA for toileting" and the phrase "SBA" is misinterpreted by another healthcare professional, the patient may be at risk of a fall.

The inability to accurately and efficiently share information undermines the collaborative spirit of healthcare, ultimately impacting the quality of patient care.

Real-World Examples: When Shorthand Goes Wrong

The dangers of misinterpreting abbreviations are not theoretical; they are substantiated by real-world cases that highlight the potential for harm.

One instance reported a patient receiving an incorrect dosage of medication due to a nurse misinterpreting "q.d." (every day) as "q.i.d." (four times a day), leading to severe complications.

In another scenario, a physical therapist misinterpreted an occupational therapist’s note regarding weight-bearing status, resulting in the patient prematurely bearing weight on a fractured limb.

These examples underscore the critical importance of diligence, clarity, and standardization in the use of abbreviations within healthcare settings. Ultimately, fostering a culture of meticulousness and open communication is essential to mitigate the risks associated with misinterpreted shorthand.

Best Practices: A Guide to Responsible Abbreviation Usage

Building upon the understanding of the potential consequences of misinterpreting abbreviations, it’s imperative to establish clear and actionable guidelines for their responsible use. The goal is to promote effective communication, minimize errors, and ultimately enhance patient care. Prioritizing clarity and adhering to established policies are paramount in navigating the complex landscape of abbreviations in Occupational Therapy practice.

Prioritizing Clarity and Avoiding Ambiguity

At the core of responsible abbreviation usage lies the commitment to unambiguous communication. Occupational Therapists (OTRs) and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) must consistently prioritize clarity above all else.

Ambiguity can lead to misinterpretations, potentially compromising patient safety and treatment outcomes. Every abbreviation should be carefully considered in terms of its potential for misunderstanding. If doubt exists, it is always best to err on the side of caution and spell out the term in full.

Defining Abbreviations Upon First Use

A cornerstone of clear communication is the explicit definition of abbreviations. Whenever an abbreviation is used for the first time within a document, report, or patient care plan, it should be clearly defined.

For instance, instead of simply writing "Pt c/o pain," the initial usage should be "Patient (Pt) complains of pain." This simple practice eliminates any potential confusion and ensures that all readers, regardless of their familiarity with the specific abbreviation, can understand the intended meaning.

Adhering to Facility Policies and Approved Abbreviation Lists

Healthcare facilities often maintain approved lists of abbreviations to promote standardization and consistency within their organization. OTRs and COTAs must familiarize themselves with these lists and strictly adhere to them.

Using unauthorized abbreviations can create confusion and potentially lead to errors in patient care. When in doubt, consult the approved abbreviation list or seek clarification from a supervisor or senior colleague. Regular training and updates on facility-specific policies are essential for maintaining compliance.

Exercising Caution with Similar Abbreviations

Many abbreviations share similar forms, which can easily lead to confusion. Extreme caution should be exercised when using abbreviations that have similar spellings or acronyms but represent different terms.

For example, "ROM" could refer to "Range of Motion" or "Rupture of Membranes," depending on the context. To avoid such confusion, it is often best to spell out the term completely, especially when dealing with critical patient information.

Considering the Audience

Effective communication requires tailoring the level of abbreviation to the intended audience. While seasoned OTRs may be familiar with a wide range of abbreviations, patients, family members, and other healthcare professionals may not share the same level of understanding.

When communicating with individuals outside of the OT profession, it is crucial to use plain language and avoid excessive abbreviation. Clear and concise explanations are essential for ensuring that everyone involved in the patient’s care understands the treatment plan and goals.

Regularly Reviewing and Updating Knowledge

The field of Occupational Therapy is constantly evolving, with new terminology and abbreviations emerging regularly. It is, therefore, essential for OTRs and COTAs to regularly review and update their knowledge of common abbreviations.

This can be achieved through continuing education courses, professional development activities, and staying abreast of current literature. Proactive learning ensures that practitioners remain competent and can effectively communicate using the most up-to-date and accurate terminology.

So, next time you see "ADL" or "UE" in your therapy notes, don’t panic! This guide to occupational therapy medical abbreviations should help you feel more confident and informed about your or your loved one’s care. If you’re ever unsure, always ask your OT – they’re the best resource for understanding your individual treatment plan.