Improving occupational therapists’ confidence in completing the Allied Health Professions Health and Work Report: Results from the CREATE feasibility study

Abstract

Introduction

There is a concern that occupational therapists lack confidence in advising on fitness to work. The aim of this study was to compare two training methods of improving occupational therapists’ confidence in completing the Allied Health Professions Health and Work Report (AHP H&WR).

Method

A mixed-methods study was conducted. Occupational therapists were recruited to face-to-face (n = 14) or online (n = 18) training. Data were collected via questionnaires at baseline, one week and eight weeks post-training, and using semi-structured telephone interviews. Questionnaire data were analysed descriptively; interviews were analysed thematically.

Results

It was possible to recruit and retain participants to the study. Occupational therapists from both groups reported that the training improved their confidence in completing the AHP H&WR. However, the majority did not have the opportunity to complete an AHP H&WR in practice during the follow-up period.

Conclusion

Similar results for both training methods shows promise for further development and testing. There is therefore potential to conduct a definitive study in this area.