Examining Intraprofessional Competencies for Occupational Therapist and Occupational Therapy Assistant Collaboration

Occup Ther Health Care. 2018 Oct;32(4):325-340. doi: 10.1080/07380577.2018.1465211. Epub 2018 Oct 31.

Abstract

This study examined competencies perceived by occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants as important for intraprofessional collaboration. While interprofessional practice is well defined, less is known about collaboration within professions with varied levels of practice credentials. Occupational therapy practitioners (N = 351) rated 20 competencies in four domains (Intraprofessional Teamwork, Roles/Responsibilities, Communication, and Values/Ethics) through an online survey. A high percentage of respondents perceived all competencies as important or very important. There were significant differences between occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants in ratings of five competencies, including: seeking information/support from the team partner, flexibility for effective partnership, engagement in professional development for collaboration, communicating ideas, and providing feedback about performance. Outcomes contribute to understanding intraprofessional collaboration for occupational therapy practice. Competencies can serve as guidelines for education and professional development.

Keywords: Competencies; intraprofessional collaboration; occupational therapy; teamwork.

Publication types

  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Clinical Competence / standards*
  • Communication
  • Cooperative Behavior*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interprofessional Relations
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Therapists / standards*
  • Patient Care Team / organization & administration
  • Professional Role
  • Social Responsibility