Interprofessional education (IPE) is now recognized as an important initiative to prepare the next generation of health providers. Although IPE has been embraced by many institutions, faculty development still remains an issue. In this manuscript, the authors share their story of one attempt to educate a variety of health science faculty on IPE in what was perceived as an approachable venue. The story of its epic failure and lessons learned will be shared to help others avoid similar pitfalls.
A momentous amount of health data has been and is being collected. Across all levels of health care, data are driving decision-making and impacting patient care. A new field of knowledge and role for those in health care is emerging—the need for a health data–informed workforce. In this viewpoint, we describe the approaches needed to build a health data–informed workforce, a new and critical skill for the health care ecosystem.
1 July 2023 in American Journal of Occupational Therapy
There is a growing recognition that social determinants of health (or social drivers of health [SDOH]) affect physical well-being. In this Health Policy Perspectives column, we describe SDOH and the evolving landscape in health care. Policymakers are facilitating notable investments in social care and putting forth requirements for health care organizations to address SDOH. We share insights and perspectives on the roles occupational therapy practitioners can play in these efforts to address SDOH and the building ecosystems connecting health care and social care.
1 April 2013 in Occupational Therapy in Mental Health
Suicide remains a significant problem for Native American populations; however, culturally appropriate interventions are lacking (Suicide Prevention Resource Center, 2011 Suicide Prevention Resource Center . ( 2011 ). Suicide Among American Indians/Alaska Natives. Retrieved from http://www.sprc.org/library/ai.an.facts.pdf [Google Scholar] ). Occupational therapy practitioners can aid in suicide prevention and intervention (American Occupational Therapy Association, 2005). This study presents a culturally appropriate program and research project following a community-based participatory research design that explores the impact of a sensory curriculum for suicide prevention on Native American youth. The perceptions of the young peoples' sensory experiences are explored. Evidence from the study demonstrates the value of exploring the use of occupational therapy intervention in Native American communities to address significant health concerns.
26 June 2015 in Occupational Therapy In Health Care
The purpose of this study was to explore rehabilitation professionals’ knowledge regarding signs and symptoms, prevention, and intervention of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Participants were 111 rehabilitation practitioners (e.g., occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology practitioners) recruited through email using a quantitative online survey design with purposive, snowball sampling. Results showed the majority of participants’ demonstrated accurate knowledge of the signs and symptoms of FASD. Since professionals who received formal education on FASD reported significantly higher feelings of preparedness to identify children with FASD and manage/coordinate intervention plans, this study suggests rehabilitation professionals may be better prepared to treat individuals with FASD if they participate in formal training.
28 January 2024 in The American Journal of Surgery