Commenting on today’s announcement about reducing NHS waiting lists through providing more appointments, Professional Advisor for Primary Care at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Genevieve Smyth, said:
‘Ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment is essential for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall efficiency of the NHS, and this announcement is taking things in the right direction to providing that. However, the government must consider expanding direct referral capabilities to allied health professionals, such as occupational therapists, which will free up GPs’ time and provide a better service to patients so they can receive more timely care from the most appropriate professional.
‘Occupational therapists play a crucial role in primary care, rehabilitation, and long-term condition management, and are well-placed to support direct referrals within their scope of practice. There needs to be a more integrated model within our health and care services so occupational therapists can refer people directly for diagnostic tests and specialist consultations.
‘There are currently tens of thousands of children and adults waiting for an occupational therapist appointment. We believe that one of the key things that will help save the NHS is ensuring there are enough occupational therapists in community settings, such as GP surgeries, schools, housing teams, social services, care homes and places of work. Additionally, the growing number of occupational therapists working in private practice provide further resource to prevent people reaching crisis point and reduce pressures on other health services.
‘But we need the resourcing and funding to make this happen. Getting the occupational therapy workforce right will actually help reduce the pressures on GPs, nurses, and all other areas of the NHS, as well as helping people live well for longer. We look forward to engaging with policymakers to explore these opportunities.’