Development of a driving clinical decision pathway for non-driver trained occupational therapists

Abstract

Introduction: While a small number of occupational therapists have additional training as driver assessors, all occupational therapists have a duty of care to address driving as an occupation. This study aimed to develop a resource to support Australian non-driver trained occupational therapists in daily practice to address driving with clients who may require on-road assessment due to a health concern. Method: A literature review and comprehensive process for the development of a driving clinical decision pathway was followed using four phases. A virtual nominal group technique was used to investigate the content validity of the driving clinical decision pathway. Purposive sampling was used to recruit two groups of occupational therapists to participate in a virtual nominal group technique. Results: A driving clinical decision pathway was developed with five key sections. The 11 participants attended 1 of 2 virtual nominal group technique for 120 minutes each, where 100% consensus was achieved with both groups relating to the content validity of the clinical decision pathway content, and ease of use. Conclusion: Driving is a meaningful goal for all adults who have health-related challenges. A comprehensive driving clinical decision pathway has been developed and made available that supports Australian non-driver trained occupational therapists to address driving as an occupation that maintains individuals’ independence and public safety.