Abstract
A survey was conducted to describe the methods and the degree to which occupational therapists in mental health settings were evaluating the work potential of patients. Of the 231 responses received from a population of 500 therapists, 157 were usable for this study. Results showed that 36% of the respondents performed work potential evaluations using interest inventories, crafts, and miscellaneous nonstandardized measures as their primary sources of information, and they cited observation as the most useful tool to obtain information about a patient. Most respondents identified the need to do more in this area and expressed an interest in expanding their skills and available resources. Implications for occupational therapy were discussed in relationship to new Medicare legislation.
