The clinical utility of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure in vocational rehabilitation: A qualitative study among occupational therapists in Slovenia.

BACKGROUND

Few studies exist on the clinical utility of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) in vocational rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore how Slovenian occupational therapists working in vocational rehabilitation, perceived the usefulness of the COPM in their everyday practice.

METHODS

A qualitative study using two focus group discussions was conducted. The meaning condensation method was applied to analyze the data.

RESULTS

Analysis revealed the following key themes: (1) the COPM facilitates collaboration with the client; (2) the COPM is a source of evidence and empowerment for occupational therapists; (3) the challenges that arise when using the COPM; (4) the use of COPM requires training; and (5) using the COPM results and understanding their meaning.

CONCLUSIONS

The study reveals new insights into using the COPM results in occupational therapy, especially into the contextual factors that influence the meaning and importance of work for clients in vocational rehabilitation.