The author responds;

ology, neuroanatomy, neurophy siology, and psychology) equips us to deliver a more productive oc cupational therapy: it enables us to intelligently implement simple modalities in preparation for func tional activity. Treatment to decrease edema, reduce pain, relax stiffened joints, followed by subcortical activity LO elicit an adaptive re sponse provides optimum benefit to patients. I do not wish to practice physi cal therapy-but, I do wish to deliver good health care. I believe that this includes appropriate pre liminary treatment that can often be more efficiently and less expen sively delivered during the course of an occupational therapy sessIOn. It is interesting to note that some of the modalities discussed are routinely available to the pub lic over-the-counter or are dispensed by physical therapy aides. In addition, many physical therapists now engage in percep tual testing and hand splinting. It seems likely that both professions are moving in the direction of increasing overlap in some areas. Perhaps, instead of striving for "separateness," identification of common areas of expertise would aid in implementation of "no nonsense" health care. This approach would benefit both the consumer and the therapist. Arline L. Horan, COTA Carteret, New Jersey