Professional competencies in occupational therapy work practice: What are they and how should these be developed?

Following the acceptance of South Africa's first democratic constitution and subsequent Disability Equity legislation, publications in South African occupational therapy literature, although very limited, indicate that occupational therapists are ideally placed and uniquely skilled to deal with the implementation of legislation and to be key role players in the work place by facilitating employment for people with disabilities. The time is now. Research should spearhead further developments in the field of work practice by identifying professional competencies required in the field. Mechanisms could be investigated and formally put in place to ensure that therapists have the required professional competencies and are able to strive towards professional excellence in the field.