Introduction/Rationale: A research agenda is crucial for guiding scholarly inquiry. Updating input from key stakeholders is vital for advancing the OT profession.
Objectives: Identify current research priorities in the US that align with key stakeholders.
Metholdology: Using a multi-phase exploratory sequential mixed method design, 33 OT researchers completed focus groups, and 378 OT professionals completed a web survey. Integrated outcomes were mapped onto the research priorities of 25 funding agencies.
Results: Findings revealed alignment of themes in twelve areas: 1) Evidence-based practice, implementation-science, translation-research; 2) Authentic OT practice; 3) Health equity, access, care coordination/utilization; 4) Health services research; 5) Justice, equity, diversity, inclusion; 6) Mental/behavioral health influences on occupational engagement; 7) Telehealth; 8) Health promotion/treatment of chronic diseases including long-haul COVID; 9) Capacity building for profession; 10) Novel approaches to service delivery/practice areas; 11) Technology/environmental supports in-home/community; 12) Transitions/lifespan approach.
Conclusion: Ongoing alignment of research priorities with key stakeholders in the US can guide foundational science and improve outcomes. Researchers can use these priorities to refine their research agendas. They should align them with the profession's most important themes. It is an opportunity when OT clinicians, researchers, and funders align on priority themes. We can increase collaboration to improve the science behind OT clinical practice. An organized update system can give clinicians and researchers easy access to population-specific and overall research. It must include advancements, outcomes, and implementation recommendations to expedite the integration of research into practice which is essential for improving healthcare quality and effectiveness.