Scope of practice of occupational therapists working in Victorian community health settings.
OBJECTIVE
Current health policy places emphasis on community-based health care and it is expected that there will be an increase in the number of people receiving care in community settings. This study aimed to examine the profile and scope of practice of occupational therapists working in Victorian community health settings and the amount and type of health promotion activity incorporated into their role.


METHODS
An anonymous postal questionnaire was sent to 205 community-based Victorian occupational therapists. One hundred and one (49.3% response rate) questionnaires were returned, with 72 respondents (35.1%) meeting study inclusion criteria. A descriptive research design was used to address study aims.


RESULTS
Results indicate that the majority of community health occupational therapists are experienced practitioners, have a varied scope of practice and report a high level of job satisfaction. Compared with previous studies, there is an increase in new graduate occupational therapists starting their career in community health settings, a greater number of part-time workers and a diversification of clinical and non-clinical roles. Barriers to practice that exist include high demand for service, limited funding and time spent on administrative tasks. Although health promotion was regarded as an important role of community health workers, a large number of therapists were not involved in this activity because of limited knowledge and clinical work taking priority.


CONCLUSIONS
Study findings have implications for occupational therapy training, and there is a clear need for input at policy level to address the significant resource allocation issues raised.
Quick
Lynne
L
Occupational Science and Therapy, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia. lynneq@barwonhealth.org.au
Harman
Suzanne
S
Morgan
Sue
S
Stagnitti
Karen
K
D000328:Adult; D003153:Community Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D006291:Health Policy; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D011320:Primary Health Care; D024382:Professional Role; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014739:Victoria; D000078329:Workforce