Staff Spotlight
Delivering client-centred care in the community
In celebration of World Occupational Therapy Day on Friday, October 27, we are excited to shine a light on Sharon Liang (pictured second from the right), a Community Occupational Therapist (OT) with the Home Health team in Vancouver.
Supportive leadership
Sharon tells us that working at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) offers her plenty of opportunities for mentorship and to improve her clinical practice. “If I need support, I know where to find it because leadership has made it accessible. I also feel personally supported by my team as we work very closely together, respecting each other as clinicians and also as human beings,” she says.
Providing care in the community
Having previously worked in acute and inpatient settings, Sharon made the switch to a community-based role to have more autonomy in her practice while using the skills she has cultivated over the years. “Being able to provide health care services in a client’s home environment truly feels like delivering client-centered care,” she says. “I enjoy the creative aspect in thinking outside of the box when considering assessments and interventions given the parameters we are working within.”
A significant part of Sharon’s role as a home health OT is in helping clients with seating and mobility. Sharon explains that it usually takes months of assessments, modifications, and interventions from start to finish. “When a client finally receives their mobility device, it opens up another world for them and it feels rewarding to be a large part of that,” she says.
Embracing VCH values
When reflecting on the VCH values (We Care for Everyone, We are Always Learning, We Strive for Better Results), Sharon says it’s important to recognize where there are areas to improve. “I remind myself that while it’s essential to feel comfortable and content in your role, it’s equally critical to regularly reflect on whether more can be done.” Sharon has also taken on the role of mentoring a student rehabilitation assistant next month and is excited to share her knowledge.
Sharon works with a community team that covers the vibrant neighbourhoods in Vancouver of commercial drive to the Downtown Eastside. You’ll often see the team members, including Sharon, going to home visits by bicycle or public transit!
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