The Gauteng Department of Health reported that occupational therapists delivered 346,105 patient contact sessions between April and September 2026. These interventions helped patients recover from illness and injury, regain independence, and improve their quality of life. The department released these figures on Tuesday as they marked World Occupational Therapy Day under the 2026 theme, “Participation Matters”.
During the six-month period, 5,372 children were screened for developmental delays, allowing for early identification and access to intervention services. A further 15,552 mental healthcare users received support, while 9,942 patients underwent hand and upper-limb rehabilitation. The department also conducted 214 functional capacity and work-related assessments to help patients return to work and resume their daily activities.
Occupational therapy teams issued 2,621 wheelchairs and specialised seating devices, while 745 wheelchair users received seating, positioning and mobility assessments. These assessments aimed to improve comfort, safety, and participation in everyday activities. The demand for occupational therapy services was reflected in the provision of mobility support across the province.
The latest figures follow the 2025/26 financial year, during which occupational therapists across the province delivered 726,050 patient contact sessions. According to the department, 7,890 children were screened for developmental delays during the financial year, while 8,631 mental healthcare users received interventions.
Occupational therapy teams also delivered 29,068 hand and upper-limb rehabilitation interventions and issued 5,529 wheelchairs and specialised seating devices. The department said the achievements demonstrated the importance of occupational therapy services in supporting patients across the province.
World Occupational Therapy Day is observed annually to raise awareness of the profession and its contribution to health, rehabilitation, and independent living. The department said this year's theme, “Participation Matters”, recognised that taking part in everyday activities was central to health, well-being, and dignity.
Occupational therapy services are available across Gauteng's public healthcare system, including primary healthcare facilities, district, regional, tertiary, and central hospitals. The services support children with developmental delays and disabilities, people living with mental health conditions, patients recovering from illness or injury, persons with disabilities, and older people who require assistance to maintain their independence.
Key points
- The Gauteng Department of Health reported 346,105 occupational therapy patient contact sessions between April and September 2026.
- Occupational therapy services are available across Gauteng's public healthcare system.
- The theme of World Occupational Therapy Day 2026 was “Participation Matters”.
