Occupational therapy workforce in India: A National survey

Abstract

Background: Workforce data offer critical information to thrust a profession forward. The insights generated through workforce data provide foundations for benchmarking and advocacy initiatives pertaining to a given profession. Periodic salary surveys help professionals monitor trends and gauge the growth of their profession. Objectives: To determine the average compensation of occupational therapy practitioners in India and benchmark the profession's growth against 2015 workforce data. Study Design: The survey research design was used to conduct this study. Methods: The electronic survey used in 2015 salary survey study was modified and sent via e-mail and social media to Indian occupational therapy practitioners identified through convenience and snowball sampling. Data were collected from October 1, 2018, to October 27, 2018. Results: The number of responses received was 191. The average salary range of full-time OT practitioners in India was 35,001–45,000 Indian National Rupee/month. Gender, job title, level of OT education, practice area, years of experience, and geographical region influence the compensation received by OT practitioners in India. The profession has demonstrated a notable growth in multiple fronts. Conclusions: Occupational therapy in India is in growth trajectory. This workforce study points to the continuing demand for occupational therapists in India. Further, in-depth exploration is recommended.