Merging physiotherapy and occupational therapy training: A paradigm shift

Abstract

This paper is based on Stephen Covey’s work “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, which is only one philosophical approach aimed at empowering people to achieve desired goals. It is therefore not a research article, neither does it suggest that Covey’s philosophy alone will lead to success, but rather, it is intended to offer a paradigm we need to consider and work within when applying any of the management theories to the joint training of occupational therapy and physiotherapy students. Naturally such a philosophical paradigm cannot stand alone in the practical implementation of a merger, however a discussion of the management theories and their strategies are beyond the scope of this paper. Therefore, while the ideas shared here are the products of a personal and professional conviction, and need to be read within this context, it may be worthwhile to consider the possible long-term implications to the training and development of professionals in the rehabilitation sciences.

Keywords

• merge, physiotherapy
• occupational therapy
• rehabilitation merge