Investigating the Need for OT Services in a Developing Country: Community and Health Clinic Needs Assessment in Southern Belize

Date Presented 04/13/21

Limited health care in Punta Gorda, Belize, and surrounding villages called for an assessment of needed OT services. Interviews were conducted remotely and with the Hillside Health Care International clinic. Four main themes emerged: (1) lack of early intervention, (2) barriers to accessing school for children with developmental disabilities, (3) high caregiver burden, and (4) lack of social–emotional care. Findings support the addition of OT to the available care in southern Belize.

Primary Author and Speaker: Kyra Barillier

Contributing Authors: Caila Frassetto, Catherine Hill, Kyeana Martone, and Niamh Butler