“The Royal College of Occupational Therapists welcomes this further investment in General Practice in Northern Ireland. In order to deliver the most benefits we would advocate that it is spent, in part, on the further development of multi-disciplinary services including occupational therapy within primary care. Doing so will result in more people having access to the most appropriate care, close to home, as quickly as possible.
“Through intervening early, occupational therapists can work with the person to address what matters to them. This reduces the risk of crisis situations and expensive unplanned hospital admissions, prevents deterioration and promotes people to manage their own health whilst retaining independence.”
For background
Occupational therapists working in GP practices can support GPs by working with range of people including those who are frail, living with mental ill-health, people with complex needs as well as people who require advice to return or remain in work.
Case Study
The Northern Trust operates recovery services in association with GP practices. Patients have a named occupational therapist, social worker and community nurse. Health and Care Centres provide a one-stop centre for assessment, treatment and provision of care to the local population. These services are designed to be accessible, aim to connect the person to the right professional help and support GPs in their practice.