Synthèse des facteurs externes qui influencent la capacité des ergothérapeutes à agir en tant qu’agents de changement

Abstract

Introduction. In order to stimulate and even achieve changes that promote well-being, health and occupational justice, the role of change agent (CA) in occupational therapy is increasingly being called upon. The internal factors essential to this role have already been identified. However, no complete picture of the external factors that may influence its actualization is available to date. Such a picture could support occupational therapists who wish to act as CAs. The purpose of this study was therefore to document the external factors influencing the ability of occupational therapists to act as CAs.

Method. Based on a validated strategy, a literature review was conducted in four databases through February 1, 2021. A rating of level of scientific evidence was assigned to each selected literature. Contextual and qualitative data were extracted and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results. Of the 739 articles identified, 26 were selected, most of which were theoretical. Three social and two institutional factors were identified, respectively: professional associations, hierarchical position, and relationships with stakeholders; and academic background and health system characteristics. Organizational culture and conceptual models were identified as cultural factors and tools and resources as a physical factor.

Conclusion. Through its synthesis of external factors, this article can support the education of future professionals and thus contribute to an optimization of the practice of the CA role in occupational therapy.