title: Effects of workplace policy on continuing professional development: the case of occupational therapy in Nova Scotia, Canada.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Continuing professional development is essential for professionals to remain competent, and for effective recruitment and retention.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This paper reports a qualitative study of the effects of workplace policy on continuing professional development on a small, dispersed profession in a resource-challenged province, using the case example of occupational therapy in Nova Scotia.
  
  
  METHODS
  The study used a multi-methods design, theoretically based on institutional ethnography. Methods were critical appraisal of the literature, interview and focus group data collection with 28 occupational therapists and 4 health services administrators, and a review of workplace policy.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The study identified a policy wall. Notable policies were those which defined who is responsible for continuing professional development, and which limited employee benefits and work flexibility options for those with family duties. It appears that a female-dominated profession, such as occupational therapy, may also face gender-based challenges.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Suggestions are offered for workplace policy makers, unions, provincial regulatory organizations, and health professionals. The findings are generally applicable to any small, dispersed health profession operating in resource-challenged conditions.
authors: School of Occupational Therapy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS. Liz.Townsend@Dal.Ca
authors: Elizabeth
authors: E
authors: Townsend
authors: Suzanne Le-May
authors: SL
authors: Sheffield
authors: Robin
authors: R
authors: Stadnyk
authors: Brenda
authors: B
authors: Beagan