Parent Satisfaction with a Paediatric Occupational Therapy Service

Abstract

This qualitative study explored parent satisfaction with a paediatric occupational therapy service, located within an occupational therapy school. The aim of this initial study was to identify features of such a service that most contribute to parent satisfaction, and themes worthy of further inquiry regarding client evaluation of paediatric therapy services. Further, the study aimed to identify any issues specific to the student involvement characteristic of university-based clinics, which may impact on parent satisfaction. Individual interviews and focus groups were conducted with eleven parents whose children had attended the clinic for therapy. Information was sought about parents' experiences and perceptions of services provided, including assessment, intervention, home programs, school visits, and written reports. The data were subjected to thematic and content analysis. The findings of this study have implications for the design of parent-friendly evaluation strategies and indicate some of the salient features of paediatric therapy services that may enhance family-centred services. Limitations of the research and suggestions for further research are discussed.

Key Words:

• Parent satisfaction
• family-centred services
• service evaluation

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Natalie Carrigan

Michael Lepp, PT, is in private practice, Associate Instructor of the Upledger Institute, and Clinical Instructor, Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry, Cleveland, OH.

Marie McKenzie, MS, OTR, is in private practice. She was Coordinator of Occupational Therapy at Scottish Rite Hospital at the time of this study.

Heather Miller, MS, OTR/L, is currently employed by Madison County Educational Service Center, providing therapy services to the county's pre-schools. This research was completed in partial fulfillment of the requirements of an MS degree at Ohio State University.

Linda Viscardis, BA, is Team Leader and Community Development Worker, Peterborough Family Enrichment Centre. She is Co-Founder of P.R.O.S.P.E.C.T.S., a support and advocacy group for families who have children with special needs.

Debra Stewart, BSc, OT(C), is Occupational Therapist, Erinoak, Serving Young People with Physical Disabilities, Mississauga, ON, and Clinical Lecturer, School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University.

Janette McDougall, MA, was Project Coordinator

Kip Husted, BEd, was a parent representative on the study team.

Aviva Yochman, MA, OTR, was a student in the School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel at the time of this study.

Imelda Burgman, MA OTR/L BCP, completed her MA in Movement Sciences at Teachers College, Columbia University, and was an Occupational Therapist at The Shield Institute, Bronx, NY. She is currently Lecturer, Habilitation, School of Community Health, Faculty of Health Studies, Charles Sturt University, Albury, N.S.W., Australia.