Occupational Therapist - The Medical Team

    a. Assists the physician in evaluating home care patients by applying diagnostic and prognostic muscle, nerve, joint, and functional

         ability tests.

    b. Participates with other clinical staff in assessing patient needs and developing an appropriate plan of care.

    c. Conducts initial evaluation independently if physical therapy is the only service orders.

    d. Takes vital signs when appropriate for evaluating and managing care appropriately during initial evaluation or on subsequent

        therapy visits.

    e. Contacts, on a timely basis, designated Clinical Services Manager and/or RN to report findings and recommendations.

    f. Completes Therapy assessment notes in a timely manner.

    g. Participates in case conferences as assigned.

    h. Involves patient and family in developing the plan of care whenever possible.

    i. Communicates recommendations for continuation and/or additional therapy services and obtains physician’s order for any needed

       special equipment.

    j. Instructs other clinical staff members in certain phases of the therapy program in which they may assist the patient.

    k. Conducts therapy reassessment visits at the appropriate time frames (at least every 30 days) and completes

        documentation according to Medicare, State, and Federal and guidelines.

2. Implements current occupational therapy practice.

    a. Implements Occupational Therapy interventions to relieve pain, develop or restore function, maximize physical capabilities in

         accordance with physician’s orders.

    b. Instructs patients and/or family in care and use of wheelchairs, braces, crutches, walkers, canes and prosthetic and orthotic devices.

    c. Submits timely, complete clinical records documenting services rendered and observations about patient’s progress.

    d. Participates in discharge planning and prepares a written discharge summary.

    e. Supervises Occupational Therapy Assistants within therapy licensing standards and medicare requirements.

         Supervises Home Health aides in lieu of a RN when OT is the only remaining skilled service provided.

    f. Implements appropriate infection control and safety measures and reports all hazards and incidents in a timely and accurate manner.

    g. Maintains confidentiality of patient information.

    h. Adheres to all Agency policies and procedures regarding schedule changes and/or missed visits

3. Uses equipment and supplies safely and efficiently.

    a. Demonstrates accurate and efficient utilization of equipment and supplies.

    b. Reports information regarding malfunctioning equipment and/or inadequate supplies to appropriate individuals.

    c. Informs patients and families of safe and efficient use of equipment.

    d. Provides information about reimbursement/payment for needed equipment and supplies to patient and family.

4. Participates in professional growth and development.

    a. Attends Agency in-services as required.

    b. Develops and presents educational programs for Agency clinical staff when requested.

    c. Participates in Performance Improvement programs and serves on the Professional Advisory Committee as needed.