Time allocation patterns of occupational therapists in Israel: implications for job satisfaction

This study analyzes the time allocation patterns at work of a sample group of Israeli occupational therapists who function in different roles and specialty areas. The sample consisted of 89 female occupational therapists working in the areas of physical impairment, rehabilitation, psychiatry, and pediatrics. Subjects recorded all of their activities during one work week and rated 23 previously identified occupational therapy activities according to perceived levels of importance. The results indicated that, on the whole, occupational therapists in all areas devoted at least two-thirds of their time to treatment-related activities (direct and indirect treatment). The results led us to conclude that the time allocation patterns used may have been conducive to "burnout." Therefore, to facilitate professional growth, we recommend that priorities be set and followed and also that role definitions be adhered to more strictly.