Maintaining a Balance in Service and Education in a Climate of Fiscal Crisis

Abstract

Doubling enrolment in the undergraduate occupational therapy programme at McMaster University was introduced in a climate of fiscal crisis. This paper will discuss the creative implementation of a Quality Circle Model in the Occupational Therapy Department at Chedoke-McMaster Hospitals, Hamilton, Ontario, which promoted concerted staff participation and self management development in light of increased student learning needs. An alternate model of Clinical Supervision was examined. The impact of this proactive, problem solving approach will be addressed and may encourage application in other occupational therapy settings.