Occupational physiotherapist: CSP/COT joint position statement

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Published: 7 May 2010
Author: Graham Clews

Physiotherapists can call themselves ‘occupational physiotherapists’, but they must make it clear to the people they treat exactly what their specialism is, and what services they offer, the CSP and the College of Occupational Therapists have agreed.

The CSP drew up the agreement with the COT after occupational therapists expressed concern that some CSP members working in vocational rehabilitation and fit-for-work schemes, described themselves as 'occupational physiotherapists'.

HPC advise

The agreement has been ratified by the HPC, which has advised that protected titles can be used in conjunction with a descriptor.

The agreement advises physiotherapists working in these fields to use their professional discretion and judgement to decide how best to describe their role. It suggests 'occupational health physiotherapist', or 'physiotherapist (occupational health)' as possibilities.

CSP and COT delighted

CSP chair Ann Green said: 'I am delighted the CSP has been able to work with COT to produce a statement that promotes the value of chartered physiotherapists' and occupational therapists' roles in providing increasingly needed services in occupational health and vocational rehabilitation and in leading and supporting 'fit for work' initiatives. The statement should both promote the professions' respective roles and guide and support CSP and COT members on using titles to convey their specialist services and expertise.'

COT chair Naomi Hankinson said: 'I am delighted that through collaborative working with the CSP we have agreed a joint statement that provides advice on the use of occupational as a descriptor. The statement also recognises the contribution of both professions to the field of vocational rehabilitation.'