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Occupational Therapy Graduates' Perceptions of Rural and Remote Practice: A Cross Sectional Survey
Abstract   Peer reviewed

Occupational Therapy Graduates' Perceptions of Rural and Remote Practice: A Cross Sectional Survey

Claire Maike and Marion Gray
Australian occupational therapy journal, Vol.60(Supplement 1), p.119
Occupational Therapy Australia National Conference, 25th (Adelaide, Australia, 24-Jul-2013–26-Jul-2013)
2013
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12062
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https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12062View
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Abstract

Clinical Sciences Public Health and Health Services occupational therapy graduates rural and remote practice
Introduction: Individuals living in rural and remote areas have comparatively poorer health than their metropolitan counterparts. Poorer health has been linked to the scarcity of health services, which has prompted research into the recruitment and retention of health professionals in rural and remote areas. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate occupational therapy graduates' perceptions of the benefits and barriers of rural and remote allied health practice. Method: A cross sectional survey was completed by graduates from the 2011 and 2012 occupational therapy program. The survey contained both quantitative and qualitative questions. Participants answered questions regarding the type and location of their current employment, placement experiences, future employment aspirations, demographic information, and their experience in rural and remote areas. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics in SPSS. Thematic analysis was undertaken independently by researchers, who then met to discuss coded data and emergent themes. Results: Findings to be presented will include graduates': hometown; location of current and preferred future employment; demographic data and area of practice. Qualitative data regarding graduates perceptions of the barriers and benefits of rural, remote and metropolitan practice will also be presented. Conclusion: This project adds to current research regarding allied health students' perceptions of rural and remote practice, and provides unique data specific to graduates from a regional university in South Queensland. The findings may inform future occupational therapy education and increase the understanding of recruitment and retention issues in rural and remote practice.

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