Artificial intelligence (AI) and generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) have gained increasing relevance in occupational therapy (OT) due to their potential to enhance clinical practice, optimize client care, and shape the future of OT education. Despite growing international evidence, literature addressing AI use in OT remains limited in the Philippine context. This Special Collection on AI in Occupational Therapy seeks to address this gap by examining the perspectives and experiences of key stakeholders across OT education and practice through a stakeholder-informed qualitative approach. Using interviews and focus group discussions, insights from school administrators, OT educators, interns, students, and clinicians are gathered to explore their attitudes, concerns, and lived experiences related to AI use in occupational therapy. These multi-perspective findings aim to inform the development of contextually grounded frameworks, institutional policies, and evidence-based programs that support ethical, sustainable, and meaningful integration of AI in OT education and practice within the local setting.

Human ; Artificial Intelligence ; Occupational Therapy ; Philippines

BACKGROUND

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly transforming various fields, including healthcare. In occupational therapy (OT), Generative AI (GenAI) holds promise for enhancing clinical practice and patient outcomes. However, its successful integration depends not only on technological advancements but also on the perceptions, acceptance, and experiences of clinicians. Despite global interest, limited research exists on the perspectives of OT practitioners in the Philippines.

OBJECTIVE

A qualitative study will be conducted with a theoretical sample of 15 OT clinicians actively working across Metro Manila who are familiar with AI, excluding those in academic roles. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) will be used as a guiding framework to understand OT clinicians' attitudes towards the usage of GenAI. After a successful pilot test, one-on-one semi-structured interviews will be
conducted online. Data will be thematically analyzed using NVivo 15, following a coding framework

METHODS

A qualitative study will be conducted with a theoretical sample of 15 OT clinicians actively working across Metro Manila who are familiar with AI, excluding those in academic roles. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) will be used as a guiding framework to understand OT clinicians' attitudes towards the usage of GenAI. After a successful pilot test, one-on-one semi-structured interviews will be
conducted online. Data will be thematically analyzed using NVivo 15, following a coding framework

EXPECTED RESULTS

The study is expected to provide insights into the familiarity, experiences, attitudes, and intentions of OT clinicians in Metro Manila regarding AI use in clinical practice. Findings may identify perceived benefits, concerns, ethical and practical considerations, and factors influencing the adoption of AI, highlighting opportunities and barriers for its responsible integration into OT practice.

Human ; Artificial Intelligence ; Occupational Therapy