Evolution of Occupational Therapy Practice: Life History of Art (Arthur) Heinze

Objective. The purpose of this qualitative study was to gather information about the history and evolution of occupational therapy (OT) practice in North Dakota and Wyoming through the life histories of individuals who have been influential in developing OT in these two states. Method. An in-depth interview was completed with Art, his wife, and the two occupational therapy students who were conducting the research. Themes regarding his career path were synthesized from the interview data and compared with the history of the OT profession. Results. There were 14 codes developed and placed into three categories. Ten themes emerged from the analysis. The findings indicate that Art had a positive impact on the evolution of the profession. Conclusion. Art’s life journey, including his personal and professional beliefs, has allowed him to play a prominent role in laying the foundation for OT to flourish in North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota as a bilateral amputee