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Increasing the occupational therapy mental health workforce through innovative practice education: A pilot project
Author(s) -
Rodger Sylvia,
Thomas Yvonne,
Holley Sue,
Springfield Elizabeth,
Edwards Ann,
Broadbridge Jacqui,
Greber Craig,
McBryde Cathy,
Banks Rebecca,
Hawkins Rachel
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
australian occupational therapy journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.595
H-Index - 44
eISSN - 1440-1630
pISSN - 0045-0766
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-1630.2009.00806.x
Subject(s) - workforce , mental health , occupational therapy , graduation (instrument) , economic shortage , medical education , work (physics) , workforce development , medicine , psychology , nursing , physical therapy , engineering , political science , psychiatry , mechanical engineering , linguistics , philosophy , government (linguistics) , law
Aim: This paper describes the evaluation of a pilot trial of two innovative placement models in the area of mental health, namely role emerging and collaborative supervision. The Queensland Occupational Therapy Fieldwork Collaborative conducted this trial in response to workforce shortages in mental health. Method: Six occupational therapy students and eight practice educators were surveyed pre‐ and post‐placements regarding implementation of these innovative models. Results: Students participating in these placements reported that they were highly likely to work in mental health upon graduation, and practice educators were positive about undertaking innovative placements in future. An overview of the placement sites, trials, outcomes and limitations of this pilot trial is provided. Conclusion: Though limited by its small sample size, this pilot trial has demonstrated the potential of innovative placement models to provide valuable student learning experiences in mental health. The profession needs to develop expertise in the use of innovative placement models if students are to be adequately prepared to work with the mental health issues of the Australian community now and in the future.