Occupational Therapy with Australian Indigenous children and their families: A rural and remote perspective

Abstract

Background/aim: Occupational therapy service delivery must be adapted when working with Indigenous communities, as there is a diversity of beliefs, values and customs. There are currently no evidence-based models of therapy service delivery to rural and remote Indigenous children and their families. This study aims to explore occupational therapy service delivery to rural and remote Indigenous children and their families. Methods: Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with seven occupational therapists with experience with Australian rural and remote Indigenous children and their families. A thematic analysis was conducted on each interview with constant comparison to refine themes across interviews. Results: A total of six service delivery themes emerged from the data gathered in the interviews; flexible and accessible services; tailored services; culturally sensitive therapist; culturally inclusive services; occupational therapy awareness; and collaboration. These results linked with the need for long-term solutions, as the limited access to occupational therapy within these communities is a social injustice. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that each Indigenous community is unique. Therapists work in collaboration with the community and use their critical reasoning skills to adjust practice accordingly. Significance of the study: This study contributes to growing knowledge about occupational therapy service provision in rural and remote Indigenous communities with children and their families. The findings will assist therapist in these communities to provide culturally aligned services. They also advocate for these communities by emphasising the basic human right violations that Indigenous communities are experiencing by not having access to consistent and culturally appropriate occupational therapy services.