Occupational Therapy: Metamorphosis with vision in Public Health for Disaster Preparedness, Response and Recovery.

Objective: Natural and man-made disasters are increasing in frequency. Recently, India has been victim of Phailin cyclone (Orrisa), floods (Uttarakhand), earthquakes, tsunami etc. Disaster situations generate significant personal loss, traumatic stress and environmental changes that directly disrupt occupational roles, habits and routines. Hence, the purpose of this concept paper is to endow with contributions that occupational therapy practitioners can provide to individuals and communities across the spectrum of disaster preparedness, response and recovery (DPRR). Further, to review and summarize authorities/organizations working for Disaster Management in India, to create awareness of Occupational Therapy role. Methodology: Phase I- Interviewed 11 Occupational Therapists working for Disaster Management in their countries, on: getting started (personal - professional preparedness), Getting connected, Accounting for OT performance strategies and contribution in DPRR contexts. Phase II-Search Strategy of Authorities/Organization. Thematic Analysis and Qualitative Data Analysis Minor 4.0 was used for data analysis. Results: Themes were generated that critically reflect on occupational therapy competencies and professional development needs for clinical/community practice, education, policy and research. 128 organizations have been identified and reported. Conclusion: This paper is a step towards expanding Occupation Therapy boundaries into the realm of disaster preparedness, response and recovery in India to make a difference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]