Occupational Therapists employed by NHS Shetland work in a variety of settings and with patients with various medical conditions. The following are some examples:
- General outpatients including Rheumatology and Neurology
- Rehabilitation of all patients over 16 years old
- Acute Medical and Surgical
- Care of the elderly person
- Paediatric
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapists work alongside a team of other health professionals including other Allied Health Professions, Doctors, Nurses and Social Workers.
An Occupational Therapist engages with patients to enable them to live as independently as possible. They work with a range of people including those who have physical, mental and/or social problems, either from birth or as a result of an accident, illness or ageing and are aware of the impact that changes in circumstances can have on individual's independence and confidence.
An Occupational Therapist will work with a person to design a programme of treatment based on the individual's unique lifestyle and preferences, sometimes modifying the environment surrounding the person. Enhancing someone's ability to participate in everyday activities is a central part of Occupational Therapy.
Occupational Therapists respect that everyone is an individual and that everyone's lifestyles are different. They will consider the importance of how a person's physical, mental and social needs will impact on their recovery process and help them achieve the goals that are most important to them.
Think of the tasks that you do everyday, from getting up in the morning, getting washed and dressed and preparing and eating a meal. How, when and where you do these things are unique to you. Think about your likes and dislikes, choosing and wearing your favourite clothes, preparing and eating your favourite meal and going out with your friends. Think about how you would feel if you were no longer able to perform everyday activities for yourself. An Occupational Therapist would look at your lifestyle and help you to live as independently as possible.
Referral Procedure
Referrals for Occupational Therapy in NHS Shetland will only be accepted from a healthcare professional.
The Local Authority employs Community Occupational Therapists in the Shetland Islands Council Social Work Department - they operate an open referral policy. For further information please go to the Shetland Islands Council website: Occupational Therapy – Shetland Islands Council.