ABSTRACT

Objective : This study was conducted to investigate the status of an OT system in countries registered in both OECD and WFOT, and to compare the selected OECD countries with Korea. Methods : Relevant data from a survey designed specifically for this study, and the published data from WFOT, were analyzed for 13 countries from several perspectives. Results : All of the 13 countries have educational systems and the average period of education for proper qualification is 4 years. Most of the countries are utilizing a national license system. Eleven of the countries have laws and acts related to OT, and four countries including Korea do not have separate legislation for only the OT profession. Except for Estonia, all countries define the scope of practice within official regulations. Korea is the only country in which occupational therapists are not authorized to practice independently without a physician’s referral or to open a private clinic. Conclusion : In comparison with other OECD members with an OT profession, Korea shows a tendency of having a comparable qualification system, but is deficient in terms of its legislative system. The current legislative system in Korea is outdated and lacking in a reflection of reality. Considering the world’s advanced concept of health, it is strongly recommended that the current legislative system for the OT profession in Korea be improved.