The purpose of this program proposal is educating physicians on the importance of recognizing lymphedema and referring clients for early treatment with occupational therapists. This collaboration will enable clients to receive the best possible care while promoting health and well-being. Evidence-based practice is used to describe measurement systems and therapy options as well as to explore client perceptions of lymphedema management. Timely treatment has been proven to result in optimal outcomes with multiple interventions being used on clients. Numerous articles support early treatment of lymphedema to slow the progression of swelling in the affected body part. This program promotes the early-education of physicians so that they may recognize and treat lymphedema in order to slow progression and to prevent co-morbidities. Early treatment has the potential to decrease health care utilization and expenditures for those with lymphedema. Physicians recognizing early lymphedema and referring for treatment can increase patient satisfaction and improve their patients’ ability to participate in preferred occupations. Further research is needed to improve early access to lymphedema care. Educating physicians on certification in lymphedema treatment, bandaging, compression garments, and massage are included in this program proposal.
