Barriers and Facilitators Influencing the Implementation of a New Community-Based Occupational Therapy Service for Preschoolers
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Aims Timely access to occupational therapy (OT) services for preschoolers remains a challenge, contributing to social health inequities. This study explored the implementation of an OT service co-developed with community organizations and childcare settings and grounded in proportionate universalism and public health principle’s.Methods A descriptive interpretative qualitative approach was used to document the first year of implementation of a pilot community-based OT service for preschoolers. Findings from interviews with partners, including pedagogical coordinator in childcare centers and community organizations (n = 6), educators (n = 3), parents (n = 3), and the occupational therapist involved in the project (n = 1), were analyzed using the Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) framework and interpreted through the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).Results Key facilitators included strong collaborations, open-mindedness, knowledge and interpersonal skills, tiered organizational model, and personalized services tailored to each partner’s needs. Barriers reported were limited follow-up by the OT, shortage of human resources, and limited availability of staff, which negatively influenced the ability to meet regularly and implement strategies.Conclusions Findings highlight the value of multi-tiered services and intersectoral partnership for improving access to early childhood rehabilitation services. More studies would help to have a better understanding of the effects of collaborative and multi-tiered services in preschool settings.
Institution: Université de Sherbrooke
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7127110577