Statistics: A Time Accounting System

Abstract

This article outlines a system of statistics currently used by the Occupational Therapy Department at the Montreal Childrens Hospital. This method was one of the results of a Health Systems Engineering Project conducted in the Occupational Therapy Department by the Montreal Joint Hospital Institute in 1975. The article outlines the problems in maintaining statistics which led to the evolution of the current method. A basic description of the procedure is given, samples of the forms used are included, and 3 sample days are calculated to illustrate the method. However, it is felt that the principles may be useful as a guideline to any type of Occupational Therapy Department. This method adheres to the recording requirements of the Dominion Bureau of Statistics, but also provides a careful breakdown of time and effort in all areas of the department's functioning. Some benefits of maintaining complete, standard statistics are also outlined.