How Have Occupational Therapy Services Been Delivered During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The provision of traditional healthcare services has encountered obstacles due to the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The inability of healthcare professionals and clients to survive the pandemic and the inadequacy of personal protective equipment have created uncertainties regarding the appropriate practices for addressing individuals' health conditions. Furthermore, the field of rehabilitation, including occupational therapy, has experienced changes in the delivery of traditional practices. Therefore, this review aimed to examine occupational therapy services delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of the literature review, the most commonly provided services by occupational therapists during COVID-19 were discussed and a total of 87 references were accessed. These services were grouped under the headings of acute/intensive care unit, post-COVID-19, telerehabilitation, preventive mental health, school-based occupational therapy, occupational therapy education, and ergonomics. It was seen that occupational therapists had several challenges during the pandemic. They had to adapt their interventions according to the new conditions and so they have frequently used technology. It is crucial for the effectiveness of the rehabilitation that occupational therapy services continue in challenging and unexpected situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It is necessary to strengthen future occupational therapy practices based on standards through collaboration among occupational therapists. It is believed that this review will shed light on the role and importance of occupational therapy during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic.