Thriving in a dynamic healthcare landscape
Research by Walder et al ( 2022 ) highlights the significance of a strong professional identity for occupational therapists . It empowers us to navigate challenges , maintain core values , and thrive in a dynamic healthcare landscape .
This identity encompasses a complex mix of factors , including :
• Self-image : how we view ourselves as therapists .
• Social recognition : the value our peers and patients place on our profession .
• Job satisfaction : the fulfilment we derive from our work .
• Social relations : the connections we build with colleagues and clients .
• Attitudes toward change : our adaptability in an evolving healthcare system .
• Professional competences : the knowledge and skills we bring to the table .
• Expectations about the future : Our vision for the occupational therapy profession .
Given the centrality of self-image , it ’ s no surprise that an RCOT survey carried out in 2022 , found 71 % of occupational therapists oppose a singlecolor uniform . While the colour green might hold a historical significance , it raises a critical question : Does it truly represent the multifaceted identity of an occupational therapist in today ’ s healthcare world ?
The RCOT Specialist Section – Major Health Conditions conference workshop provided a valuable platform for occupational therapists to reevaluate their professional identity .
Delegates emerged re-energised and motivated to move forward , as perfectly captured in one of the delegate ’ s comments : ‘ Inspiring discussion at # rcotssmhc2024 about maintaining and promoting our professional identity as occupational therapists . We have so much to offer with the holistic care we deliver to promote health and wellbeing through facilitating occupational engagement and participation .’
By embracing the multifaceted nature of our profession , occupational therapists can create a more inclusive and meaningful representation of occupational therapy in modern healthcare .
This includes actively promoting the profession , fostering collaboration within multidisciplinary teams , advocating for the unique value occupational therapy brings to patient care and engaging with RCOT activities .
Through these collective efforts , occupational therapists can navigate the evolving healthcare landscape with a strong and unified professional identity .
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Academy of Medical Royal Colleges ( 2020 ) Developing professional identity in multi-professional teams . Available at https :// bit . ly / 4fgmeIm [ accessed 8 February 2024 ).
Ashby S , Adler J , Herbert L ( 2016 ) An exploratory international study into occupational therapy students ’ perceptions of professional identity . Australian Occupational Therapy Journal , 63 , 233-243 . doi : 10.1111 / 1440-1630.12271 .
Boehm J , Tanner B , Lowrie D et al ( 2015 ) Exploring emerging occupational therapy identity and the development of graduate attributes among occupational therapy students . British Journal of Occupational Therapy , 78 ( 8 ): 499-507 .
Souto Gomez A , Talavera-Valverde , M ., Garcia-dela-Torre , M ., Marquez-Alvarez , L . ( 2023 ). Exploring occupational therapists ’ professional Identity : A Q-Method Study . Healthcare , 11 , 630 . doi : 10.3390 / healthcare11040630 .
Turner A , Knight J ( 2015 ) A debate on the professional identity of occupational therapists . British Journal of Occupational Therapy . 78 ( 11 ): 664 – 673 .
Walder K , Bissett M , Molineux M , Whiteford G ( 2022 ). Understanding professional identity in occupational therapy : A scoping review . Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy , 29:3 , 175-197 . doi : 10.1080 / 11038128.20 21.1974548 .
Wilding C , Whiteford G ( 2008 ) Language , identity and representation : occupation and occupational therapy in acute settings . Australian Occupational Therapy Journal . 55 ( 3 ): 180-187 .
Words AIDA WARD , Clinical lead for Senior Adult Oncology Team , The Christie ’ s , Manchester , and JULIE PENTNEY , Band 6 Occupational Therapist , Integrated Therapy Team , The Royal Oldham Hospital , part of the Northern Care Alliance NHS Group , and Co-Chairs of the RCOT Specialist Section – Major Health Conditions aida . ward2 @ nhs . net
November 2024 OTnews 35