Making great occupational therapy referrals: how to get the right help, first time, for children, young people and families

Abstract

The demand for children's occupational therapy is rising, but resources and capacity are not following at the same pace. As a result, many children and young people are waiting too long to receive the occupational therapy they need and deserve. This article offers guidance for paediatricians to increase the chances of their referrals being accepted so children and young people can access the help they need, when they need it. The article begins by examining the reasons behind the growing demand, then explains how the universal, targeted, and individualized service model is being used to provide more timely access to occupational therapy expertise. Lastly, it offers guidance to help referrers make great referrals to enable children and young people to access the level and type of occupational therapy they need to fulfil their potential and live full and happy lives.