Introducing Emily McDougal – Occupational Therapist and Community Services Clinical Lead

Know us for when you need us

Emily McDougal – NZROT Occupational Therapist and Community Services Clinical Lead

What does a day look like for you?
As I wear 2 hats – Clinical Lead for Community Services and Occupational Therapist my day is mixed and varied throughout the week. Usually, my day starts off with a collaborative team meeting to set the day and work for the community service. Then, I work alongside the inpatient and community teams to provide Occupational Therapy input and advice to assist patients and their families/whanau to engage in meaningful activities of daily living.

What’s a myth about Hospice services that you’d like to dispel?
That hospice is a service that is fully funded by the government and that we are the ‘flash building on the hill’. We need to raise around 50% of our income from donations and fundraising opportunities to cover expenses each year.

What do you find most rewarding about the work that you do?
Getting to hear amazing life stories and experiences from the wonderful people in the Nelson Tasman Region and being able to give people comfort in challenging times.

If you could describe yourself as an item of clothing, which would you be and why?
I would be a bright pink woollen jersey! Bright because it lights up any space it’s in and woolen as it brings warmth and comfort from wearing it. It’s also a talking point and helps to break the ice and even bring fun to any situation!