Occupational Therapist Perspectives: Factors Influencing Recovery Following Motor Vehicle Accident Injury

Background. Motor vehicle accident (MVA) injuries can result in persistent impairments which contribute to chronic pain, mental health symptoms, and decreased quality of life. Occupational therapists play a key role in the rehabilitation of those injured in MVAs yet there is lack of evidence to inform occupational therapy practice. An explicit understanding of the factors influencing post-MVA recovery from occupational therapists' perspectives is needed to inform clinical service delivery. Purpose. This study addressed the following question: From the perspective of occupational therapists, what factors are identified as influencing recovery following a noncatastrophic injury sustained in an MVA? Method. An interpretive descriptive study design was used. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with 10 occupational therapists who provide auto-insurer funded occupational therapy to clients with noncatastrophic injuries from an MVA. Data were analyzed using constant comparative analysis. Results. Physical symptoms and accessibility, acceptance, social support, access to occupational therapy, and navigating the insurance system were factors identified as influencing post-MVA recovery. Conclusion. This study highlights the importance of using a biopsychosocial lens when working with clients post-MVA. Recovery post-MVA needs to be considered in the context of the insurance system, as navigating the insurance system was a predominant factor influencing recovery.