Occupational Therapy
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY JOB
According to WFOT (World Federation of Occupational therapy) Occupational therapists are autonomous health professionals that work with individuals, groups and communities in a variety of settings such as, pediatrics, ortopedics, neurolgy, low vision therapy, mental health, assistive technology, oncological rehabilitation and geriatrics.
OTs are employed in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, residential care facilities, home health agencies, outpatient rehabilitation centres, etc. to promote participation in occupations that give value and meaning to life.
In occupational therapy, occupations refer to the everyday activities that people do as individuals, in families and with communities to occupy time and bring meaning and purpose to life. Occupations include things people need to, want to and are expected to do.
Occupational therapists are educated, self-directed and use evidence and judgement to complete assessments, plan and implement occupational therapy interventions and evaluate outcomes of service.
To work as an occupational therapist, individuals must complete an education programme in occupational therapy, and in most countries, meet regulatory standards for entry-to-practice and continuing competency
How Occupational Therapy is Provided
Referral
Occupational therapists can provide direct access to occupational therapy services without a referral from another health professional. Occupational therapists also accept referrals from a broad range of individuals, professionals and organisations. Occupational therapists have the right for self-determination regarding the populations and settings they serve, including those marginalised by economic, political or social factors.
Assessment
The occupational therapy process is based on initial and repeated assessments. The occupational therapist works together with the individual, group or community receiving occupational therapy to focus on personal capacity and environmental factors that may impact performance of important daily activities.
Assessment includes the use of standardised procedures, interviews, observations in a variety of settings, as well as consultation with significant others.
Planning
The results of an occupational therapy assessment form the basis of a plan which address short and long-term aims of intervention. The plan is relevant to the developmental stage, habits, roles, life-style preferences and environment of the person, group or community receiving occupational therapy.
Intervention
Intervention focuses on person-oriented programmes designed to facilitate the performance of everyday tasks and adaptation of settings in which the person, group or population receiving occupational therapy works, lives and socialises. Examples include teaching new techniques and providing equipment to facilitate independence in personal care; and reducing environmental barriers by providing resources to lessen stress.
Cooperation
Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants recognise the importance of teamwork. Cooperation and coordination with other professionals, families, caregivers and volunteers are important in the realisation of the holistic approach used in occupational therapy.
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