Employment of occupational therapists is expected to increase much faster
than the average for all occupations through 2014. The impact of proposed
Federal legislation imposing limits on reimbursement for therapy services
may adversely affect the job market for occupational therapists in the short
run. However, over the long run, the demand for occupational therapists
should continue to rise as a result of growth in the number of individuals
with disabilities or limited function who require therapy services. The
baby-boom generation�s movement into middle age, a period when the incidence
of heart attack and stroke increases, will spur demand for therapeutic
services. Growth in the population 75 years and older�an age group that
suffers from high incidences of disabling conditions�also will increase
demand for therapeutic services. Driver rehabilitation and fall-prevention
training for the elderly are emerging practice areas for occupational
therapy. In addition, medical advances now enable more patients with
critical problems to survive�patients who ultimately may need extensive
therapy.
Hospitals will continue to employ a large number of occupational
therapists to provide therapy services to acutely ill inpatients. Hospitals
also will need occupational therapists to staff their outpatient
rehabilitation programs.
Employment growth in schools will result from the expansion of the
school-age population, the extension of services for disabled students, and
an increasing prevalence of sensory disorders in children. Therapists will
be needed to help children with disabilities prepare to enter special
education programs.
Source: Bureau of Labor
Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook
Handbook, 2006-07 Edition
