Reprofiling and Skill Mix: Our Next Challenge

Abstract

The current economic and political climate within the National Health Service is demanding improvements in quality of service provision with increased throughput at lower unit cost. It is becoming increasingly important that managers find ways of making changes in these areas. Staffing is the most expensive resource in the NHS. Within the occupational therapy profession, staff are scarce and there is an increased demand for occupational therapy services. The importance of using human resources effectively and efficiently is becoming paramount in dealing with these two issues. The process of reprofiling and skill mix may provide the solution.