What does the minimal detectable change (MDC) signify in occupational therapy?

The minimal detectable change (MDC) is a critical concept in occupational therapy as it signifies the smallest change in a patient's performance or condition that can be considered a true improvement, differentiating it from measurement error. This means that when a clinician observes a change that meets or exceeds the MDC, they can be reasonably confident that this change reflects an actual alteration in the patient’s status rather than fluctuations that might occur due to the inherent variability of the measurement tool or technique.

Understanding the MDC helps therapists make informed decisions regarding treatment effectiveness and patient progress. It allows therapists to set realistic goals and measure outcomes effectively, ensuring that treatment plans are optimized for the needs of the patient, reflecting genuine improvements rather than incidental variations in assessments.