I have been working as an Occupational Therapist in Injury Management since 2010, and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Ever since I can remember, I wanted to be an Occupational Therapist. Going through University of Queensland, I discovered that there was an enormous variety of areas within occupational therapy in which I could choose to specialise. Whilst I was interested in physical rehabilitation, Injury Management really grabbed my attention. One of the things we learn as an Occupational Therapist is that a person has many different facets within their life, and one cannot only concentrate on one element to assist a person to progress and to recover e.g. physical, psychological, and social. In other words, a Worker is not simply a Worker, but they could be a mother/father, brother, cousin, daughter, or even a Carer. So, not only do I have to consider the Worker role, but I may have to consider what the person does at home or for recreation which may be impacting on their recovery or if they may require assistance with certain things and what assistance would be most appropriate.
I frequently get asked if I write a standard Suitable Duties Plan for all workers with a particular injury. In my opinion, the extent of the injury, the treatment and recovery to date, the work environment (including the duties), as well as the person make each and every Return to Work unique. There is not one day of my job that is the same- which makes my day quite exciting!
I may not provide any “hands-on” treatment for my clients, but the most rewarding part of my job is to see the progress of a Worker from the initial stages of their injury and recovery through to them returning to the workplace and role which they had prior to sustaining their injury. Not only do all medical professionals and allied health providers play a role in this Return to Work, but the Worker should also be within this equation- they have done the hard work of attending treatment, adhering to their Suitable Duties Plan and doctor’s recommendations and they have returned to their usual role. That takes determination and motivation, and it is a wonderful thing to be a part of!
Blog – Natalie Foxcroft (Occupational Therapist)