Analysis of the occupational therapist's professional identity when working in acquired brain injury rehabilitation within a municipal service

Abstract

Background: Due to changing rehabilitation pathways, patients currently spend less time in hospital and are sent back to municipal care earlier than before. Studies show that occupational therapists (OTs) experience working with patients with acquired brain injury (ABI) to be a complex process and that in some situations, they fail to believe in their own professional expertise. Aim: This qualitative study aimed to explore how the professional expertise of OTs working in ABI rehabilitation in municipal service provision is understood. Material and Methods: One monoprofessional focus group interview with OTs and five focus group interviews with municipal interprofessional rehabilitation coordinating units were the basis for the study. Data were analyzed using systematic text condensation. Findings: A holistic view and strategically selected areas of expertise were found to characterize the work of OTs in the municipal setting. A composed base of knowledge enables OTs to be rehabilitators with multiple collaboration partners. Conclusion: The OT’s area of expertise within adaptation, assistive devices, and cognition is considered to be valuable in ABI rehabilitation in a municipal setting. A practical synthesis of knowledge and the practice of transprofessional collaboration and role release furthermore enable the OT to take the position of a multifarious rehabilitator.