Integrated care pathways in mental health settings: An occupational therapy perspective

Abstract

The requirements for health care professionals to demonstrate evidence-based practice and to adhere to the clinical governance agenda are of pressing importance. These processes have been enhanced by the use of integrated care pathways (ICPs). ICPs outline and document clearly the key components of an individual's care within a given service. The lack of ICPs, in both mental health in general and occupational therapy in particular, is noted and discussed. The benefits of ICPs for occupational therapists are highlighted and an example of such a pathway, within a forensic mental health environment, is discussed.