Expanding Self-Management Support From Chronic to Acute Care: Implications for Value

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Occupational Therapy
• Health Promotion

Background:

• Self-management support is crucial for chronic conditions.
• Acute care clients also require active participation and support.
• Current acute care models often overlook patient self-management.

Purpose of the Study:

• Advocate for extending self-management support from chronic to acute care.
• Demonstrate the value of occupational therapy in acute settings.
• Enhance the value of healthcare services through improved patient engagement.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis and advocacy based on existing literature.
• Comparison of needs between chronic and acute care populations.
• Alignment of self-management principles with occupational therapy philosophy.

Main Results:

• Acute care clients share key needs with chronic care patients regarding self-management.
• Self-management support can improve adherence and health outcomes in acute care.
• Occupational therapy's core tenets align with providing self-management support.

Conclusions:

• Self-management support should be integrated into acute care settings.
• This integration enhances the value and impact of occupational therapy.
• Expanding self-management support promotes holistic health and addresses long-term costs.