Advanced practice must be clearly defined to ensure safe care, says RCOT

Advanced practice occupational therapists are a vital part of the solution to rising demand

Commenting on recent debate around advanced practice roles in the NHS, Director of Practice, Innovation and Advocacy at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Karin Orman, said:

‘Advanced practice is essential to delivering today’s health and social care. Advanced practice occupational therapists are highly skilled autonomous practitioners bringing expert clinical judgement and leadership to patient care every day.

‘Advanced practitioners are regulated professionals working within defined scopes of practice. They are not substitutes for other professions. They bring distinct specialist expertise that strengthens multidisciplinary teams and improves outcomes.

‘We’re clear that advanced practice is not the problem. The issue is how these roles are defined and used across the system.

‘Variation in how these roles are deployed, often driven by workforce pressure rather than workforce design, is creating confusion for patients and professionals and leading to inconsistent care. Undermining these roles risks devaluing a highly skilled workforce and limiting the contribution they provide.

‘When roles are not clearly defined, patients are left unsure who is responsible for their care and professionals are placed under unnecessary pressure. That is not safe or sustainable.

‘Advanced practice occupational therapists are a vital part of the solution to rising demand. When used properly they improve access, reduce delays and deliver better outcomes.

‘We’re calling for a consistent national approach, including clear role definitions, strong governance, transparent communication and workforce planning that enables all professions to work at the top of their expertise.’