Beyond the Ramp: Occupational Therapists’ Perspectives on Universal Accessibility

IntroductionThe perception of occupational therapists is essential to the improvement of universal accessibility projects. However, there is little evidence on the involvement of occupational therapists in this field.AimTo explore occupational therapists' perceptions of their professional experience and training in universal accessibility, and its integration into their practice.MethodologyThis study adopts a interpretative descriptive qualitative methodology. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with nine participants in Quebec, Canada. Thematic analysis was done.ResultsInterviews revealed three main themes: 1) knowledge of universal accessibility, 2) the accessibility project process, and 3) the occupational therapist's contribution to universal accessibility. Each theme also includes sub-themes: The main findings related to a lack of training in universal accessibility, the engagement and roles of occupational therapists in accessibility projects, and the added value of this professional's contribution to projects.ConclusionThese results can help occupational therapists and other professionals in the field of universal accessibility better understand the role of occupational therapists in this field and can guide occupational therapy programs in improving academic training in this area. This could help define the occupational therapist's role in this field and optimize their contribution.