An international interprofessional tele-mentorship programme: a mixed-methods study

Abstract

There is great need for mentorship in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in the field of occupational therapy (OT); however, there is little research on the effectiveness of an international tele-mentorship programme. The objectives of this mixed methods research were to examine the effectiveness and perceived benefits of the online, international mentorship programme. The study utilised the Self-Assessment of Clinical Reflection and Reasoning (SACRR) at initiation and completion of the study, 11 months apart, and a focus group. The results found significant changes in self-perceived clinical reflection skills in items 23 and 25 on the SACRR. Qualitative themes were increased confidence in clinical skills and occupational therapy practice, importance of evidence-based practice, significance of mentorship and inter- and intra-professional collaboration, and programme improvements. In conclusion, the tele-mentoring sessions enabled participants to form relationships/contacts, gain knowledge from qualified experts in specialty practice areas, and increase confidence in their clinical skill sets.