Yoshiaki Ikechi, OTR, MS, Keiko Inoue, OTR, PhD, Masahiko Ishimaru, MD, PhD
Jpn J Compr Rehabil Sci 11: 98-101, 2020
Objective: This study aimed to compare the role of
occupational therapy (OT) with that of rehabilitation
occupations in palliative care teams (PCT).
Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted on
PCT representatives and OT department managers at
cancer hospitals.
Results: Approximately 40% of facilities had an
occupational therapist registered (OTR) in the PCT.
Differences among the roles of each rehabilitation
occupation were not found. Regarding the role of the
OTR in the PCT, items that had significantly higher
scores in the responses of PCT representatives were
"support for transition and selection of treatment places"
and "care for outpatient/home care patients." Items that
had significantly higher scores in the responses of OT
department managers were assessment approaches for
mental distress, patient decision support, and family care.
Conclusions: It is necessary to clarify the role of not
only OT but also all rehabilitation occupations in the
PCT. It is also important for OTRs to take advantage
of their own strengths and focus on the roles required
by other occupations.
Key words: palliative care team, rehabilitation, occupational therapy, role