The Occupational Therapist provides evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation to patients to improve their ability to perform daily living activities, work tasks, and social functions. The therapist works with patients who may have physical, developmental, or emotional challenges, focusing on restoring or improving their independence through tailored therapy plans.
Key Responsibilities:
Interpret physician referrals and select appropriate standardized evaluation procedures for each patient.
Evaluate patients in various areas including independent living skills, occupational performance, prevocational work adjustment, educational skills, play-leisure abilities, social skills, and psychosocial skills.
Analyze data from evaluations to develop individualized treatment plans with short and long-term goals, detailing the frequency and duration of therapy.
Design and fabricate adaptive equipment, orthotic devices, and provide joint protection and body mechanics education to assist patients in carrying out therapy procedures.
Educate patients and their families on the goals and progress of treatment, ensuring clear communication and understanding.
Assist with discharge planning by ordering necessary equipment and providing instruction on home therapy plans.
Supervise students and assist in their training and development when applicable.
Perform other duties as assigned to ensure effective patient care and organizational success.
Required Qualifications:
Education:
Required: Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
Experience:
Required: Minimum of 1 year of experience in a specialty, providing occupational therapy in a clinical or healthcare setting.
License/Certification:
Required:
Current state Occupational Therapy license.
BLS (Basic Life Support) / CPR certification.
Skills & Experience:
Strong knowledge of occupational therapy theories, practices, and techniques.
Ability to assess and evaluate patient needs and develop personalized treatment plans.
Excellent communication skills for interacting with patients, families, and other healthcare providers.
Experience with the design and fabrication of adaptive equipment and orthotic devices.
Ability to maintain professional and compassionate interactions with patients, families, and team members.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in a specific therapeutic area (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics, hand therapy, etc.) is preferred, though not required.