Introduction
The OTPF-4 identifies advocacy and leadership as key responsibilities of occupational therapy practitioners. Professional awareness is a significant challenge faced by the Occupational Therapy Association in Ghana. Ghana's first occupational therapy program started in 2012, with the first cohorts graduating in 2016 however the profession still faces cultural and societal challenges creating a gap in care delivery.
Objectives
The project aims to educate stakeholders, raise awareness, influence policies, and integrate occupational therapy into Ghana's healthcare and education systems.
Methods
A five-week virtual educational module was conducted with participants. The modules covered introduction to occupational therapy, traditional and non-traditional settings, adaptive equipment, and home modification. Pre- and post-surveys were used to assess knowledge and understanding.
Results
The results showed that participants exhibited improved knowledge and understanding of occupational therapy. The advocacy program effectively enhanced participants' understanding, and they expressed high likelihoods of utilizing and referring OT services.
Conclusion
The study concludes that occupational therapy advocacy programs are effective in increasing awareness and understanding of stakeholders in Ghana. Through education on the benefits of the profession, there has been a greater understanding of the role of occupational therapy, and additional conversations and opportunities with the association have emerged.