Arbetsterapeuters erfarenheter av att arbeta som egenföretagare : En kvalitativ studie

The aim of this study was to describe the experiences occupational therapist's have of running a business within the field of occupational therapy, and show the possibilities there are for being a self-employed occupational therapist.A qualitative design was chosen for the study, with semistructured interviews for collecting data. Six occupational therapist's running their own businesses were interviewed. The collected data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis wich resulted five categories.The result showed that the broad competence that occupational therapists have, gives opportunities to run a business and offering services in many different areas. Participants highlights the benefits of prior experience, the freedom of being self-employed, as well ascharacteristics and knowledge that will benefit the business. The participants describe how they market themselves and their businesses, the importance of having a social network, for advice and support, but also to generate clients. The participants also describe challenges that running a business can bring, such as getting a financial balance the first years.There are many opportunities for occupational therapists to operate the business in many different areas. Further, it brings a freedom, meaning an autonomy that is not possible in a health care organization. An essential element of running a business is to have a social network. Some of the challenges is to find knowledge about how the business should be run, as well as getting financial balance. An organization regarding occupational therapy and self-employment is desired, where support and assistance can be based on the profession's knowledge.Validerat; 20150611 (global_studentproject_submitter