Rationing Resources

Abstract

In 1979 a survey of a limited sample of local authority O.T.s was conducted to investigate the existence of any problems in resource allocation that they might experience. The results revealed that pressures of work and budget restrictions prevented them from giving the best care to their clients and in some cases clients had to be denied help. There were a great many variations in the organisation and management of O.T.s but in very few cases did O.T.s have any help in deciding how to allocate resources. Professional relationships, particularly with social workers were strained and O.T.s were unhappy with their professional status within departments. Isolation and lack of professional support can lead to a decrease in job satisfaction which in turn can lead to a decrease in the quality of work provided and may even lead to a desire to change employment. At a time when pressures on O.T.s in the community are increasing because of resource constraints, it is necessary to be aware of the problems they face and consider ways in which these may be lessened.