As an occupational therapy educator, Karen Hayes is committed to preparing her students for the real world. At Charles Sturt University, she aims to create an environment where students feel supported and challenged to excel in rural practice. Her teaching style is hands-on, with plenty of opportunities for students to learn by doing.

Karen believes in nurturing critical thinking skills and cultural awareness, alongside clinical knowledge. She supports her students every step of the way, helping them become compassionate and competent occupational therapists ready to make a difference in rural communities. Beyond clinical skills, aims to inspire a sense of social responsibility and a lifelong commitment to learning.

She sees occupational therapy as more than just a job; it's about advocating for health and well-being in communities, both locally and globally.

Karen's research focuses on understanding and addressing the unique opportunities in rural occupational therapy practice. She has a particular focus on workforce. She studies where therapists are located, what services they offer, and how to fill the gaps in care. She aims to look beyond urbanormative approaches to healthcare services and challenge governments, policy makers, and employers to provide equity and justice for rural and remote communities.

Ultimately, Karen's research is driven by a desire to create a healthcare system where everyone, regardless of location, can access quality care. Through collaboration, advocacy, and interdisciplinary research, she works to make this vision a reality.

To find out more about Karen’s publications please review the Charles Sturt University Research Output repository.