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Increasing the occupational therapy mental health workforce through innovative practice education: A pilot project |
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| Authors: | Sylvia Rodger Yvonne Thomas Sue Holley Elizabeth Springfield Ann Edwards Jacqui Broadbridge Craig Greber Cathy McBryde Rebecca Banks Rachel Hawkins |
| Institution: | Members of Queensland Occupational Therapy Fieldwork Collaborative;, The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Occupational Therapy, St Lucia, Queensland;, James Cook University, School of Public Health, Tropical Medicine, and Rehabilitation Sciences, Cairns, Queensland;, Mater Health Services, Occupational Therapy Department, Brisbane, Queensland;, CRS Australia, Gold Coast, Queensland;, University of the Sunshine Coast, Faculty of Science, Health and Education, Sunshine Coast, Queensland;, Occupational Therapists' Board of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia;, and Occupational Therapist and OT AUSTRALIA Qld Vice-President |
| Abstract: | 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. |
| Keywords: | collaborative models mental health placements practice education role emerging supervision |