Occupational Therapists in Rural Healthcare: A “Jack of All Trades”

Rural areas are often perceived to have limitations in healthcare resources. The literature indicates that shortages of occupational therapy resources exist within rural health areas. This study reports on a survey that was distributed to rehabilitation departments in Nebraska, excluding only the metropolitan areas of Omaha and Lincoln. Forty-four of the ninety-three surveys sent were completed and returned (47.3%). The survey examined the occupational therapy resources available and those diagnoses treated in the designated geographical area. Although the survey results do not support the literature regarding limitations of occupational therapy resources, results do demonstrate a variety of challenges faced by therapists practicing in isolated areas.