The National Academies of Practice has a new chair of its Occupational Therapy Academy — Sarah McKinnon, OT, OTD, OTR, interim chair of the Occupational Therapy department. After serving as chair-elect for the past year. McKinnon assumed her new role over the weekend during the organization’s annual meeting in Washington D.C., where Assistant Professor of Nursing Kathy Sabo and Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy Kim Erler were inducted as Fellows. 

The National Academies of Practice is the only interdisciplinary group of health care practitioners dedicated to advising governmental bodies on the healthcare system and focused on ensuring the permanency of telehealth.

"I’m proud to be part of NAP, and as the incoming chair of the OT academy, where professionals from 17 health professions come together to advocate for policies that strengthen healthcare systems and improve patient outcomes,” said McKinnon. “Our ability to speak with one voice makes a real difference."

While in DC, she also took part in the group’s advocacy day on Capitol Hill on March 13. 

“Telehealth is essential for increasing access and continuity of care,” explained McKinnon. “I had the opportunity to engage with policymakers alongside colleagues from social work, psychology, and optometry, highlighting the power of interprofessional collaboration. It was inspiring to see how our collective voices can influence meaningful change."