Occupational therapy: cost-effective solutions for changing health system needs

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Occupational therapy (OT) interventions demonstrate cost-effectiveness in injury prevention and health outcome improvement.
• Existing literature supports OT's role in areas like falls prevention, musculoskeletal injury, stroke rehabilitation, and early intervention for developmental disabilities.
• Opportunities exist for OT to expand its impact on chronic disease management, pain, mental health, dementia, palliative care, and home care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To align the discussion of health system transformation with the established cost-effectiveness of occupational therapy in Canada.
• To synthesize evidence on the economic benefits and expanded roles of occupational therapy within healthcare systems.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on occupational therapy cost-effectiveness.
• Analysis of studies focusing on various health conditions and care settings.
• Examination of the alignment between occupational therapy's capabilities and health system transformation goals in Canada.

Main Results:

• Occupational therapy interventions are consistently cost-effective for injury treatment and prevention.
• OT is effective in improving health outcomes in diverse areas including rehabilitation, disability, and home care.
• Significant potential exists for OT to address complex and chronic health conditions, mental health, and end-of-life care.

Conclusions:

• Occupational therapy offers a cost-effective solution for improving health outcomes and managing diverse patient needs.
• Expanding the role of occupational therapy is crucial for effective health system transformation.
• Evidence supports the integration and increased utilization of occupational therapy services in Canada.