Which foundational documents guide occupational therapy practice in Canada?

The foundational documents that guide occupational therapy practice in Canada include the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and CAOT Practice Standards. The Canadian Model of Occupational Performance (CMOP) provides a framework that emphasizes the relationship between the individual, their environment, and their engagement in meaningful occupations. This model informs the assessment, planning, and intervention processes that occupational therapists use to support their clients in achieving their goals.

Additionally, the CAOT Practice Standards outline the ethical and professional guidelines that occupational therapists must adhere to in their practice. These standards ensure that therapists provide safe, effective, and ethical care while fostering professional development and accountability within the field. Together, these documents create a comprehensive framework that is specifically relevant to the practice of occupational therapy in Canada, ensuring that therapists operate within a context that is culturally and professionally appropriate.

In contrast, the DSM-5 and ICD-10 are classifications used primarily in psychology and medicine for diagnosing mental health disorders and medical conditions, not specifically guiding occupational therapy practice. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) pertains to the privacy and security of healthcare information and is largely applicable in the United States. The American Occupational Therapy Association Code of Ethics, while relevant in its context, does not serve as a foundational guiding document for occupational therapy