Practical considerations for the application of occupational therapy at a physical distance

Description

The Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), in collaboration with the Swiss Occupational Therapists Association, is developing a digital brochure on the use of occupational therapy at a distance for occupational therapists in the Swiss healthcare system.Spatial distance occupational therapy circumscribes all therapeutic services provided at a distance, enabled by the use of electronic telecommunication and information technologies (ICT). Despite growing evidence on the value of therapy at a distance, it is important to assess the individual needs of clients and to determine the appropriateness of therapy at a distance on a case-by-case individual basis. Following existing guidelines, this online brochure is designed to help occupational therapists understand both the professional and clinical benefits and risks of using occupational therapy at a distance and to advocate for responsible service delivery.