How can types of practice settings be characterized?

The characterization of practice settings in occupational therapy can be best understood through levels of care and areas of practice. Different settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, and home health care, provide varying levels of care based on the needs of patients. Additionally, areas of practice can range from pediatrics to geriatrics, mental health, and rehabilitation, each requiring specific skills and approaches tailored to the populations served.

This method of classification allows for a comprehensive understanding of the diverse environments in which occupational therapy is practiced and the specific functions therapists fulfill in these settings. By focusing on both the levels of care—such as acute, sub-acute, and long-term care—and the distinct practice areas, one can clearly delineate the role of occupational therapy in meeting different client needs across the spectrum of health care.