Assessing Cultural Competency and Agility Among Occupational Therapists in Canada: A Cross-Sectional Mixed-Methods...

Background. National and provincial professional associations and regulatory bodies for occupational therapists (OTs) in Canada emphasize culture, equity, and justice as essential competencies. This study investigates the diversity within the occupational therapy profession and explores OTs' perspectives on providing culturally responsive care to members of equity-deserving groups, with a particular focus on cultural competence and agility. Method. OTs were administered a cross-sectional mixed-methods survey that included demographics, the Cultural Competence Assessment Instrument (Two subscales: Awareness and Sensitivity and Competence Behaviour), and an open-ended question examining their perceived cultural competence. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative themes were determined through content analysis. Findings. A total of 240 OTs participated in this survey, with an average age of 45.3 (22.5), identifying primarily as females/women (90.7%). Less than half of respondents (41%) identified their race; of those who did, they were primarily of Southeast Asian descent (21.3%). OTs had lower scores for Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity (3.17/7 [3.11, 3.23]) and for Cultural Competence Behavior (3.22/7 [3.08, 3.37]). While highlighting the healthcare system distrust and barriers to culturally responsive care, most felt confident addressing them. OTs reported that greater awareness and inclusivity at individual and systemic levels are needed. Conclusion. Our sample of OTs suggests little diversity related to gender, race, and ethnicity. OTs in Canada vary in their perceptions of health disparities, barriers for patients in accessing and receiving health care, and efficacy in addressing barriers.