Support Local Authorities with clearing Occupational Therapy waiting lists
We will systematically address the root causes and prioritise high-need cases and make progress in reducing waiting times and improving access to these critical services.
We will collaborate with local authorities, healthcare professionals, and community organisations building on robust efficient pathways.We will consider the following to address waiting lists for Occupational therapy services:
- Assessment and Prioritisation based on individual needs and conditions.
- Resource Allocation to determine the resources required to address the waiting list including number of occupational therapists, access/funding for equipment/works/systems and tools.
- Review and streamline the referral and intake processes to ensure that individuals are assessed and placed on the waiting list efficiently. Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies that may be contributing to delays.
- Explore the use of telehealth and technology to provide initial assessments, consultations, or follow-up care, reducing the need for in-person visits and potentially speeding up the process.
- Prioritise and identify high-impact cases where early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. Prioritise these cases to reduce their waiting time.
- Meet insufficient occupational therapists to meet the demand, work with the local authority to use OT Assist therapists with continued partnerships with healthcare/community providers.
- Provide resources and information to educate families understand how to best manage client needs during the wait.
- Establish a robust data collection and monitoring system to track progress in clearing the waiting list. Regularly assess whether resources are allocated effectively and adjust as needed.
- Provide resources and information to educate families understand how to best manage client needs during the wait.
- Implement a system of continuous quality improvement to ensure that services are delivered efficiently and effectively, with a focus on positive client outcomes.