Technology training program: addressing the distinct telehealth challenges of occupational therapy practitioners in mental health practice
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Abstract
As the delivery of occupational therapy (OT) services via telehealth has dramatically expanded after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 (AOTA, 2022), the effective utilization of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) along with psychosocial skill proficiency is at the forefront of healthcare within a mounting mental health crisis (WHO, 2022). Despite the essential application of ICTs, occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) apparently lack knowledge, skills and confidence utilizing telehealth effectively (Aboujaoudé et al., 2021; Campbell et al., 2019; Chike-Harris et al., 2021; Corey, 2019; Hermes et al., 2021; Hoel et al., 2020; Larsson-Lund & Nyman, 2019; McClellan et al., 2020; Miranda-Duro et al., 2021). Moreover, research suggests that OTPs further lack confidence incorporating psychosocial abilities and personal attributes, such as therapeutic use of self (Anderson & Halbakken, 2020; Birken et al., 2017; Taylor, 2020). These obstacles jeopardize the distinct value of OT in mental health, as well as the overall viability of the profession. The Technology Training Program (TTP) is a multi-module, curriculum-based ICT skills training intervention that promotes professional advancement in these areas of clinical practice. OTP proficiency in technology and psychosocial skills is a crucial investment that promotes overall competence and self-efficacy to successfully meet global challenges and healthcare demands within a rapidly evolving digital landscape.