Episode 6: Equality’s Out, Equity’s In — But What Does That Mean for OT?

In this episode of Outspoken OT, host Michelle Eliason, MS, OTR/L dives into the American Occupational Therapy Association’s 2025 Code of Ethics and its two major updates: replacing equality with equity and adding advocacy as a core professional value. What sounds like a simple word change actually signals a deeper philosophical shift for occupational therapy — from fair processes to fair outcomes. But what does that mean for clinicians? How do we balance advocacy, neutrality, and scope of practice without drifting into politics or losing clinical clarity? Michelle unpacks the differences between equality and equity, explores what “advocacy” really means in a clinical context, and challenges OTs to reclaim advocacy as a therapeutic skill — not just a social talking point. Whether you’re an educator, clinician, or student, this episode will help you think critically about how ethical frameworks shape practice, policy, and the profession’s future. 📬 Contact Michelle - DM: @Buffalo.OT - Email: [email protected] - Follow for more unfiltered conversations about the future of occupational therapy. >>>>>>Stay curious. Stay critical. Stay Outspoken.