Promoting an occupational perspective in public health.
BACKGROUND
Although the value of occupation for health and well-being is fundamental to the occupational therapy profession, this view is not well recognized in the field of public health.


OBJECTIVE
In this article, we argue that occupational therapists have a unique and valuable perspective to bring to the field of public health, particularly with respect to the importance of occupational engagement in promoting the health and well-being of Canadians.


RESULTS
There are many compelling reasons for public health advocacy, including the need to increase awareness of the health benefits and risks of occupational engagement for individuals and communities. Challenges that lie ahead, however, include issues related to terminology, the complexity of occupation, the need to consider multidimensional outcomes, and diversity of evidence.


CONCLUSIONS
To move forward, the profession of occupational therapy in Canada needs to position health promotion messaging in a way that clearly captures the complexity and value of occupation and resonates with Canadians of all ages and abilities.
School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, 1400 Main St. West, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 1C7, Canada. molls@mcmaster.ca
Sandra E
SE
Moll
Rebecca E
RE
Gewurtz
Terry M
TM
Krupa
Mary C
MC
Law
D002170:Canada; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D016272:Occupational Health; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011634:Public Health; D012307:Risk Factors; D014937:Work