Survey of Occupational Therapy Practice in WFOT Countries

Abstract

A survey of 47 WFOT delegates was conducted of practice patterns of occupational therapy services within their own country. A total of 32 delegates responded, yielding a 60% response rate. This paper presents information on common work settings, age ranges and health problems of clients, reimbursements systems, types of assessments used, the focus of goals in intervention, as well as descriptions of changes in practice patterns over the past decade. The delegates, when asked how to advance practice both within their own countries and globally, provided advice to the worldwide occupational therapy community. Key findings from this advice included the promotion of international cooperation among associations and therapists, the advancement of standards for practice and education, the facilitation of exchange of information, and the promotion of research.

Key Words:

• practice patterns
• trends
• international