More than three quarters of occupational therapists in the UK believe there is not enough collaboration between healthcare professionals and specialist manufacturers, according to a report released by Repose Furniture.
The specialist seating manufacturer surveyed a straw poll of occupational therapists (OTs) at this year’s Occupational Therapy Show and found that an alarming 79% crave greater collaboration in order to make the right choices for their patients when it comes to selecting specialist furniture.
And, according to the survey, when OTs do assess seating solutions for patients, 85% of them look for functionality over design, comfort, and price; with 61% saying that specialist furniture and home adaptations are ‘vital’ to the success of their work.
The survey findings are further supported by TV clinician, Dr Hilary Jones, who opened the show and works closely with Repose on its product ranges.
This communication holds a pivotal role when examining knowledge transfers and effective collaboration
During his 30-minute talk he said: “My role with Repose has provided me with invaluable insight into the potential that collaboration can bring to occupational therapy practice, so to deliver a seminar to a group of like-minded professionals was a real privilege.
“It is great that this is further supported by the results of the Repose survey, which re-enforces the idea that collaboration and knowledge transfer are key to providing best possible patient care.”
The results enable the industry to open up important two-way communication channels between occupational therapists and ourselves
Lisa Wardley, managing director for Repose Furniture, added: “The results of the survey are very encouraging. They enable the industry to open up important two-way communication channels between occupational therapists and ourselves, something that we strongly advocate already at Repose.
“This communication holds a pivotal role when examining knowledge transfers and effective collaboration. It will enable us to gain greater insight into the specific needs and requirements of a variety of medical conditions. This will further empower us to continue to develop our bespoke range of seating solutions, with functionality and comfort at their heart.”