Case study research: Building the occupational therapy evidence base one case at a time

There is growing recognition in healthcare that evidence from randomised controlled trials may not be appropriate to answer the full spectrum of practice-based questions and a more pluralistic approach is needed.

To consider the use of case study research in contributing to the occupational therapy evidence base.

A critical discussion of the current state of evidence-based practice in occupational therapy and exploration of a viable approach to case study research is used.

Case study research can capture the context and complexity of occupational therapy practice. Cases can then be pooled to make a substantial contribution to the evidence base.

Occupational therapists should consider the use of case study research to produce practice related, meaningful research. Journal editorial boards need to be mindful of the value of high-quality case study research when considering publication priorities in occupational therapy literature.

Highlights a changing landscape in the literature about how best to conduct research in health and social care, particularly for complex interventions and describes a pragmatic approach to case study research for occupational therapy.