Community-Working Occupational Therapists’ Involvement in Research and Development Projects in Norway

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore community-working occu- pational therapists’ involvement in research and development projects. A cross-sectional survey of occupational therapists working in community-based services in Norway (n = 617) was conducted. In all, 117 of the 617 participants responded that they were involved in research and development projects. Greater likelihood of participation in research and development work were found for occupational therapists who had com- pleted further education. Current and prioritized research top- ics were professional development and the development of interprofessional and professional service designs for occupa- tional therapy. Service and quality development, rehabilitation and technology were areas where more knowledge was con- sidered needed. To increase the growth and success of occupa- tional therapy research and development, it is important that more occupational therapists in the municipality continue to complete further education. High-quality occupational therapy practice should be based on research and development proj- ects in the municipalities.