Benefits and challenges of role-emerging placements of student occupational therapists in HIV service organisations

Background and aims: Recognising the importance of occupational therapy for people with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has led to the possibility of promoting and integrating services in HIV service organisations through role-emerging placements for student occupational therapists. The objective of this study was to investigate the benefits and challenges of role-emerging placements of student occupational therapists in HIV service organisations. Methods: This study employed qualitative methods to understand the perspectives of student occupational therapists, HIV service organisation staff, an occupational therapy preceptor, and people with HIV following 8-week role-emerging placements of student occupational therapists in HIV service organisations. Transcribed interviews were analysed using content analysis to identify themes. Findings: Results highlighted the following benefits: 1) Reinforcing professional skills; 2) Developing competency in providing rehabilitation services for people with HIV; 3) Shining a light on the role of occupational therapy; and 4) Empowering HIV service organisations. Challenges included: 1) Starting the groundwork; and 2) Building relationships. Conclusion: The placements of student occupational therapists in HIV service organisations can foster the integration of occupational therapy services in these organisations to maintain the optimum community responses. Findings also demonstrated the value that role-emerging placements have in increasing the competencies of the student occupational therapists as future rehabilitation professionals.