The occupational therapists’ association on Tuesday called on the Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) and the health ministry to explain changes to plans for bringing occupational therapy into the general health scheme (Gesy). The association said the integration of occupational therapy into Gesy had followed years of discussions involving two governments and successive political leaderships. It said it submitted a detailed proposal to the HIO in March, accompanied by a technical memorandum and a technical and economic study. The association said the HIO knew that its counterproposal was nearing completion when it became aware of new information concerning changes to the original proposal. It also raised concerns over access to occupational therapy through Gesy, stressing that the principle of universal healthcare meant access should be based on documented therapeutic need and objective clinical criteria, rather than exceptions.