Abstract
Date Presented 03/21/24
Using a stratified random sample, a survey assessed OT practitioners’ attitudes, knowledge, and implementation of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). Results revealed a gap in practical understanding; implications are discussed.
Primary Author and Speaker: Ellen Renee Cahoon
Additional Authors and Speakers: Anne E. Dickerson
PURPOSE: To assess the current level of understanding regarding Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provisions among occupational therapy practitioners (OTP). A lack of knowledge of ADA can restrict the scope of occupational therapy direct intervention and consultatory roles.
DESIGN: Stratified random survey design from AOTA membership based on employment setting.1000 OTPs were surveyed.
METHOD: A combination of two existing surveys was used to assess OTP’s attitudes, knowledge, and implementation. Demographics and preferred resources were also collected. Descriptive and exploratory inferential statistics are being used to explore the ongoing data.
RESULTS: Over 250 OTPs have completed the survey with a mean of 25+11 yrs of experience. Education levels were 35% at BS, 49% at MS, and 14% at doctoral, with no significant differences in their knowledge. The majority (89-96%) agreed/strongly agreed that the ADA was important for clients, and OTP’s role included advocacy, empowerment, and client education about the ADA. Conversely, most respondents answered 9 or more of the 15 knowledge questions incorrectly or did not know the answer. There was a statistically significant difference between the overall score on the ADA knowledge test and the frequency of ADA education activities (p<.001).
CONCLUSION: Despite most agreeing that ADA education and advocacy are part of OT’s scope, OTPs lack knowledge. This is associated with lower reports of advocacy in practice. This highlights a gap in the practical understanding of the ADA among OTPs. A better understanding of the ADA may lead to greater advocacy regarding the ADA in clinical practice.
IMPACT: These results are important to policy and practice. Understanding the ADA is crucial for therapists and OTPs to empower clients to self-advocate for accommodations and to report violations. Knowledge would enable OTPs to participate in accessibility policy. Discussion will include knowledge and education improvement strategies.
References
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Young, D., Wagenfeld, A., & Rocker, H. V. V. (2019). Universal Design and the built environment: Occupational therapy and interprofessional design teams—A scoping review. Annals of International Occupational Therapy, 2(4), 186–194. https://doi.org/10.3928/24761222-20190625-04
