The 22nd Vona du Toit Memorial Lecture: The stepping stones from input to outcomes: An Occupational Perspective

Abstract

Occupational therapists in South Africa do not seem to have, as yet, adopted routine outcome measurement in daily practice. Although there is an abundance of valuable clinical contributions by occupational therapists, there is little evidence of recorded change in clients’ activity participation or functional ability. This Vona du Toit Memorial Lecture addresses this apparent shortcoming in practice. The value of the work of Vona du Toit was highlighted as well as two other pioneers in the health care arena: Mary Reilly and Georg Rash.

Seven stepping stones to consider when implementing routine outcome measurement were presented. The importance of having an occupational therapy mainstay was argued and that this mainstay should be occupational performance. Routine outcome measurement was presented as a viable strategy for basic evidence indicators of occupational performance at any time, any place and without much effort. The basic science underpinning development of such measures was clarified and presented as a way for occupational therapy to get a foot in the door to enhance its recognition as a powerful profession whilst proving the invaluable change that meaningful occupational performance can bring about.