Integrating the concepts of health promotion and community into occupational therapy practice

Health reform activities in Canada have encouraged health care professionals to examine new and innovative ways to share their skills, not only with other professionals, but with the public. Historically, occupational therapists have been encouraged by leaders in the profession to expand their practice and to share their skills through active participation with their communities. Health promotion has been identified as a process through which this expansion can be pursued. In order for occupational therapists to contribute to their communities in a meaningful way, the concepts of health promotion and community require definition, development and reflection within their model of practice. Through a discussion of these concepts, this paper encourages occupational therapists to develop, expand and integrate new practice roles within the community by integrating health promotion into their practice.