Exploring occupational therapists' perceptions, current practices and confidence levels in supporting return to work after stroke: A mixed-methods study.

INTRODUCTION

Approximately 100,000 people in the United Kingdom experience a stroke each year, with one in four being of working age. One-third do not return to work. Occupational therapists support stroke survivors return to work, but specific practices are unclear. This study aimed to explore occupational therapists' perceptions, current practices and confidence levels when working with people with stroke who wish to return to work.

METHODS

A mixed-methods study was completed. A survey explored occupational therapy practices and confidence levels. A focus group explored the experience and perceptions of occupational therapists. Participants were occupational therapists in the United Kingdom working with individuals with stroke for a minimum of 6 months.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight respondents completed the survey. There were four focus group participants. Traditional stroke rehabilitation assessments and interventions were reported more frequently than work-related interventions. Participants reported being less confident liaising with employers and identified lack of resources, training and flexibility in delivery of stroke services as challenging.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that current occupational therapy practice does not consistently provide work-specific interventions. Flexibility in services is needed to address the vocational rehabilitation needs of stroke survivors with recommendations for post-graduate training and specialist roles in stroke-related vocational rehabilitation.