Occupational Therapy’s Role within the Middle and High School Settings in the United States

Abstract

ABSTRACT There is a need for occupational therapy (OT) in the middle and high school settings, yet the role practitioners (OTPs) play in these settings is not clearly defined. School-based OT is in alignment with the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF) which recognizes health is supported and maintained when clients are able to engage in their home, school, workplace, and community (American Occupational Therapy Association, 2020). OTPs serving students in the middle and high school settings ensure successful engagement while at school by addressing not only the occupations specific to education but also by addressing the factors that disrupt or empower these occupations American Occupational Therapy Association (2020). Evidence suggests OTPs are struggling to provide relevant service due to limited clarity of their role . A scoping review was conducted to describe the role of American-based OT in the middle and high school settings, identify barriers that affect practitioners, and provide practitioners with information about the role of the OT. Researchers utilized Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses-Scoping Review extension guidelines. Inclusion criteria included were articles published in English, peer-reviewed journals, within the past twenty years and within the scope of OT practice. A total of 1,107 records were identified of which 24 articles were included. Three themes emerged: 1. specific interventions used in middle and high school settings such as transition readiness, social participation, fine motor/handwriting, assistive technology, literacy participation, and life skills; 2. barriers to service delivery; 3. and the need for advocacy. More research is needed to develop conclusive evidence relating to the current practices of occupational therapy in the middle and high school settings.