Sensory Squad OT

Sensory Squad OT Pediatric occupational therapy helps children gain independence while also strengthening the develop

02/02/2026
As a pediatric occupational therapist in private practice, I want to share an important update that directly affects Ida...
01/11/2026

As a pediatric occupational therapist in private practice, I want to share an important update that directly affects Idaho families and children with disabilities.
We recently received a notice from Idaho Medicaid stating that Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy services are now limited to 20 visits per year, with any additional visits requiring pre-authorization. While a review process exists beyond that cap, it is lengthy, uncertain, and often delays or limits access to care.
For many of the children we serve, 20 visits is not even close to enough.
That is barely five months of weekly therapy, and many children require ongoing, consistent services to make meaningful progress with motor skills, communication, social emotional skills, feeding, sensory regulation, self regulation and independence.
These limits don’t just affect clinics.
They affect:
• Families trying to support their child
• Schools trying to meet educational needs
• Providers trying to follow best practice
• And most importantly, children trying to develop critical life skills
Early intervention and consistent therapy reduce long-term costs by improving function, independence, and participation. Cutting access now shifts a heavier burden onto families and schools later.
We will continue to advocate for our clients, submit pre-authorizations when needed, and support families through this process, but the reality is that this policy creates barriers where none should exist.
If you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or provider, please consider reaching out to your Idaho legislators and Medicaid officials.
Please contact the office of Governor Brad Little 208-334-2100
Idaho legislature information center 208-332-1000
Idleginfo@Iso.idaho.gov
General DHW contact (Medicaid and benefits) 877-456-1233
Medicaid Division (policy/administration) 208-334-5747

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12/15/2025

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Coeur D'alene, ID
83814

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About the Therapist

Samantha Whiting, Pediatric Occupational Therapist

Samantha completed her education at Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, California and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy in 1993. She is a board certified Occupational Therapist.

Her postgraduate work includes pediatric outpatient therapy, adult outpatient therapy and adult long-term care therapy. She spent several years specializing in post-traumatic hand therapy. Throughout her career, Samantha has developed an interest in orthopedics and rehabilitation during all stages of life. She has experience treating patients of all levels, from intercollegiate athletes to those with a more sedentary lifestyle and early development. However,Samantha’s passion for working with children has led her in the direction of a pediatric specialty. While Samantha enjoys interacting with the pediatric population, she has an innate ability to connect with adult patients and treat a wide variety of physical ailments.

Samantha currently assists with operations at Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Institute, an outpatient adult rehab clinic she owns, along with her husband, Tony. Samantha is an active volunteer on the board of The Crossing, an annual community event. Samantha is the proud mother of 3 children and their Bernie, Lucy. She enjoys Pilates, yoga, dance, baking, biking, running and spending time with her family and friends.