Mapping the role of occupational therapy within primary care services: A scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational therapy is named a key profession within primary care, with growing demand due to an ageing population and increase of people living with long-term conditions. Despite this, occupational therapy within primary care remains an evolving, under researched area of practice. This scoping review explored the role of occupational therapy within primary care including the populations and interventions currently provided. Methods: The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews was followed with systematic searches conducted across CINAHL, PubMED and AMED databases with grey literature also sourced. The findings are presented in tabular format and analysed using descriptive statistics and frequency counts to identify patterns and trends alongside narrative reporting. Findings: This scoping review identified 40 relevant articles, with older adults reported as the most frequent population supported by occupational therapists. Interventions focused on physical health including providing equipment/assistive devices, supporting mental health through stress and anxiety management, with limited reported interventions with children and young people. Conclusion: This review has highlighted key interventions provided by occupational therapists and the breadth of the role within primary care. Research and sharing of best practice is required to showcase occupational therapists evolving contribution within primary care.