Fostering the Systematic Use of Outcome Measures in Outpatient Neurological Occupational Therapy: Pre-Implementation Activities

Systematically using outcome measures (i.e., standardized assessments) in practice can guide clinical decision-making and demonstrate professional value. This project aimed to execute pre-implementation activities in preparation for integrating a systematic outcome measurement process in outpatient neurological occupational therapy (OT). Sub-aims included identifying the current state of outcome measure use by therapists and understanding client and therapist perspectives of using such measures. This mixed-methods project leveraged (a) quantitative data characterizing outcome measures used in outpatient neurological OT and (b) qualitative interviews of clients and therapists. Of the 32 measures used, frequently used measures emphasized impairments (e.g., manual muscle testing). Desired measure characteristics included relevance to functional client goals, ability to demonstrate improvement, and quick administration. Measure heterogeneity reinforces the need for core measures emphasizing function. In response, the health system selected the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure for initial implementation. Client and therapist insights highlight factors needed for successful implementation.