Occupational therapy graduates reflections on working and their ability to cope with primary healthcare and rural practice

Abstract

Background: Occupational therapy graduates are expected to deliver service in public health facilities using a primary 
healthcare approach (PHC) during their community service year. There is limited literature available about their experiences in this context.
Objective: This study explored the experiences of novice occupational therapy graduates and the extent to which their 
curriculum had prepared them for practice in PHC settings.
Methods: This qualitative exploratory study used purposive sampling to recruit thirty nine novice occupational therapy 
graduates. Using audio-recorded semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion data were collected to explore 
participants' experience of work and the extent to which their undergraduate programme had prepared them for primary healthcare practice. The data was analysed thematically.
Findings: Occupational therapy graduates expressed challenges in applying the PHC approaches for practice in resource-r
restricted rural settings. They required additional skills to communicate in the local indigenous language, to understand the 
various beliefs of the local communities and to manage change in these settings. They were well prepared for basic clinical skills as a need for urban-based ethical practice.
Relevance to clinical practice: Curriculum planners need to review the teaching of communication skills and introduce 
students to strategies for change management. More inter-professional collaboration and service-learning in rural primary 
healthcare settings will prepare them better for rural and PHC settings.

Key words: Occupational therapy education, Primary health care, rural practice , community service