Challenges in accessing and implementing innovative interventions in occupational therapy

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify the main barriers to accessing and implementing innovative treatment approaches in occupational therapy from the perspectives of expert practitioners. METHODS: A descriptive and cross-sectional design was adopted using the Delphi method. Twenty expert occupational therapists in Türkiye, each with at least two years of clinical experience, participated in the first round, while 17 completed the second round. Data were collected through two rounds of online questionnaires. In the first round, participants responded to open-ended questions, and their answers were analyzed using content analysis to generate themes. In the second round, these themes were rated on a 7-point Likert scale to assess the level of consensus among participants. RESULTS: A total of 67 distinct statements were collected in the first round and synthesized into seven themes. In the second round, the highest level of consensus was reached on high training costs, therapists’ lack of knowledge, and difficulties in accessing technology and equipment. Conversely, themes such as lack of standardized protocols, regulatory compliance issues, and insufficient multidisciplinary collaboration showed lower levels of agreement. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that limited technological infrastructure, restricted accessibility, high educational costs, and absence of standardized guidelines are the primary barriers to the clinical integration of innovative interventions in occupational therapy. Addressing these barriers is critical to promoting technology-based, client-centered, and evidence-driven practices in the field.