Occupational therapy
Occupational Therapists enable people who have difficulties with their daily living tasks, social or work roles, to achieve functional independence through rehabilitation and adapting their environments.
Occupational Therapists (OTs) within the hospital are part of a well recognised and dynamic team. They work within the specialised areas of hands, burns and plastics, rehabilitation and musculo-skeletal out-Patients, each dedicated to providing expert care in their chosen field. Working as a combined team with other therapists (physiotherapists, speech and language therapists and dietitians) and colleagues, the friendly department is made up of approximately 50 staff.
The well resourced unit works closely with others in the hospital and has excellent professional relationships with referring Consultants, GPs and directly with other health professionals. The effective communication between professions ensures patients receive holistic and comprehensive care.
All OTs are now required by the Health Professions Council and The British Association of Occupational Therapists (http://www.cot.org.uk/) to undertake continuing professional development. This is recognised as an integral part of the therapist's schedule and extensive programs of appraisals and training are actively promoted. Department representation at both national and international conferences is common, in order to disseminate audit and research findings and stay abreast of innovative therapy approaches.
The Therapy Department has instigated many patient care initiatives within the hospital, for example burns rehabilitation, extended scope practitioners, and establishing a balance and bone group. The fact that the department is constantly looking at how to improve services, reflects their commitment to provide a service of the highest competence, quality and care.