P064 A scoping survey for the UK Rheumatology Occupational Therapy Capabilities Framework

A capabilities framework outlines the essential skills, knowledge, and practices needed for healthcare professionals to deliver optimal care. While frameworks exist for rheumatology nurses and physiotherapists, standardising practice and supporting development, occupational therapists (OTs) lack a dedicated framework despite their key role in rheumatology multidisciplinary teams (MDTs). To address this gap, we conducted an online survey to gather insights into the clinical roles and expertise of rheumatology OTs. The findings will inform the creation of a comprehensive capabilities framework for UK rheumatology OTs, aiming to enhance care quality, standardise practice and catalyse professional growth.

A survey was developed by a working group established through the British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) channels and distributed using an online platform. UK rheumatology OTs were contacted via social media platforms and professional networks, including the BSR and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) and snowball sampling. The survey collected data on job roles and work settings, satisfaction levels with the work role, the specific tasks performed by OTs working in rheumatology, perceived NHS band appropriateness and comfort level with the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) Core Competencies for healthcare professionals using multiple choice answers and Likert scale ratings. Voluntary participation was ensured, with respondents providing consent digitally via the online platform. Responses were descriptively analysed.

A total of 88 rheumatology OTs completed the survey. The majority worked in full-time rheumatology roles (60.3%), with the largest proportion employed at Band 6 (44.3%) and Band 7 (46.6%) levels. Participants primarily worked in acute settings (73.9%) and reported spending 75-90% of their time on direct clinical contact. Satisfaction with role-related aspects varied, with 52.3% satisfied that their job description accurately reflected their role and 59.1% satisfied with time for follow-up appointments. Comfort with applying EULAR competency recommendations was mixed, with 41.3% reporting high confidence in using these recommendations in practice. Key areas for professional development were identified, with only 42% satisfied with the training they had received. The findings highlight the need for structured capabilities and professional development frameworks for OTs in rheumatology to improve standardisation, career progression, and patient care.

The survey results reveal varying satisfaction levels among rheumatology OTs regarding their roles and professional development, with gaps identified in formal training and the application of EULAR guidelines. While many therapists feel confident in their clinical roles, there is a clear need for a structured capabilities framework to enhance standardisation and career progression. This project is the first step in developing a comprehensive framework that guides UK rheumatology OTs in delivering consistent, high-quality care. Establishing clear professional standards will support individual and service-level improvements, ensuring better outcomes for people with rheumatic conditions across the UK.

Y. Prior: None. S. Battista: None. W.J. Gregory: Honoraria; W.G. has received honorarium for speaking and advisory board roles from Abbvie, Jannsen, Novartis, Sofi and UCB. P. Bisset: None. S. Derham: None. D.M. Dockrell: None. C. Livesey: None. G. O’Callaghan: None.