Work related programs in occupational therapy

This paper addresses occupational therapists who would like to become involved in work related programs for the industrially injured. The authors review the historical and philosophical bases that support occupational therapy's use of work as an evaluative and therapeutic medium. The workers' compensation process is outlined and key professionals in the system are identified. Three services that the occupational therapist can provide are defined. They are work tolerance screening, work capacity evaluation, and work hardening. An example of basic program structure, including evaluative tools, is given for each of the three services.