Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) in Primary Care: A Profile of Practice

This study aimed to understand how the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) can be used as an outcome measure in primary care and to identify the occupational performance profiles in this setting.

First, the COPM was administered to all eligible clients at two sites. Second, a focus group with participating occupational therapists explored the feasibility of using the COPM in primary care.

A total of 161 COPMs were initially administered. Self-care goals were identified most frequently (n = 248), followed by productivity (n = 229) and leisure (n = 179) goals (total goals = 656). Mean initial performance and satisfactions scores were 3.2 and 2.8, respectively. The average change (n = 22) scores were 2.1 and 2.6, respectively.

The COPM is an invaluable tool to guide initial assessments and offer an occupation-focused lens. Given the lifespan approach and an emphasis on screening and assessment, the challenge was finding the opportunity for readministration.