To Ron and the list,
Good Subject matter and discussion, according to AOTA, OT in the future will
become more evidence-based and science driven (Centennial Vision), which means
that in addition to all of our existenial anxst about defining our unique
profession by theory, we now need empirical data that supports our dearest held
theories and beliefs. In fact our theories should be shaped by trends in our
data as much as our theories dictate our methods. This can be a very
threatening process for professionals. I recently was on a continuing ed course
on evidence-based practice and I found it fascinating but the scary thng I
learned that was that for OT there's not a lot of science and evidence that
confirms our theories.
Clinical practice is as likely to be shaped by research in the future as it
is by theory and therefore I think we should all keep an open mind about what
we believe in...and adjust our practices accordingly. Some practices will be
confirmed as more effective (and cost effective) than others in certain
settings,
I know that OT is really just in its infancy regarding true science, and
much debate will follow, but the truth of effective rehabilitation methods may
only partially suit our world view (and framework).
Remember at one time the world was thought to be flat, and the sun was
thought to revolve around earth as the center of the universe. These were
another couple of widely held theories.
Brent C
--
Options?
www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com
Archive?
www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]
