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Exploring the Current Role and Interventions of Occupational Therapy in High-Risk Maternal Health: A Descriptive
Olivia Ariens1, Kaitlin Freeman1, Amanda Mack1
1Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Occupational Therapy in Health Care
|June 11, 2026
Summary
Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) support high-risk maternal health patients by focusing on participation, psychosocial well-being, and client-centered care. Further research is needed to define their roles and expand services in maternal health.
Area of Science:
- Maternal Health
- Occupational Therapy
- Healthcare Interventions
Background:
- High-risk maternal health populations face complex challenges impacting well-being.
- Occupational therapy's role in this demographic is not fully understood.
- There is a need to explore how occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) contribute to maternal health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the roles and interventions of occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) with high-risk maternal health populations.
- To identify key themes and practices employed by OTPs in this specialized area.
- To highlight the unique contributions of occupational therapy to maternal care.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive qualitative study design.
- Semi-structured interviews with seven OTPs across four U.S. regions.
- Inductive coding analysis to identify emergent themes.
Main Results:
- Five key themes emerged: Participation- and Occupation-Focused Practice, Psychosocial Emphasis, Client-Focused Care, Specialized Services, and Navigating the Realities of Healthcare.
- OTPs provide crucial support for role transitions, mental health, specialized physical needs, and interprofessional collaboration.
- Findings underscore the value of occupation-centered, client-driven care in maternal health.
Conclusions:
- Occupational therapy offers unique contributions to high-risk maternal health.
- Clearer role definition, enhanced education, and further research are essential to expand OTPs' impact in maternal health.
- The study emphasizes the importance of integrating occupational therapy services for improved maternal outcomes.
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