The contribution of occupational therapy to the fabric of Australian rural and remote communities

Abstract

Social justice has provided a basis for the underlying values of occupational therapy in Australia. In the 1990s, changes in health issues and delivery of services are causing occupational therapists to reconsider their values and the ways they deliver their services. By any measure, the health status of individuals in rural and remote communities of Australia is poorer that their urban counterparts. The issues associated with the poor health status of these communities will best be addressed through a combined strategic approach by governments, organizations and professional groups, including occupational therapy. Identification of some of the key issues affecting the supply of occupational therapists in rural and remote communities and how they might be addressed are discussed. It is proposed that the development of cohesive national strategies and actions aimed at enhancing the contribution of occupational therapy to rural and remote communities ought to include, among other things, adoption of the primary health care approach, fundamental changes in the education and preparation of practitioners for practice, and identification of competencies and standards for effective rural and remote practice.