An occupational therapy refresher course: a 5-year follow-up report.

OBJECTIVES The shortage of occupational therapists prompted the faculty of the program in occupational therapy at the University of Minnesota to develop a reentry (refresher) course. METHOD A questionnaire sent to all enrolled in the 2-week refresher course during a 5-year period revealed that three intended groups of therapists have benefited: those reentering practice, those considering a change to another area of specialty, and those updating their educational background. RESULTS Respondents indicated that the course increased self-confidence, theoretical knowledge base, and ability to apply theory to practice. CONCLUSION Both reentering therapists and those changing specialty areas of practice reported positive employment outcomes.