Occupational Therapy Assistant - Eastern Connecticut Health Network

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Occupational Therapy Assistant is responsible for the delivery of direct therapy services under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist to help patients achieve a maximum level of functional independence. Participates in an interdisciplinary approach for in servicing and community education and in the clinical education of affiliating students. Potentially may be responsible for cross-site coverage.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• Graduate of an accredited program of Occupational Therapy Assistant with a minimum of Associates.
• Holds or is eligible for current Connecticut license.

COMPETENCIES:

• This position requires an individual with strong communicative skills, both verbal and written.
• Must have personal computer skills and be proficient in the use of Windows based programs needed for department functions.
• Basic skill in software programs Outlook, Word, Excel as well as internet search capabilities are desirable but not required.
• Must have access to reliable transportation to travel between multiple work sites; and travel is required in order to perform essential duties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

Disclaimer: Job descriptions are not intended, nor should they be construed to be, exhaustive lists of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. They are intended to be accurate reflections of the principal duties and responsibilities of this position. These responsibilities and competencies listed below may change from time to time.

Job-Specific Competency

1. Treats patients with the appropriate and acceptable therapeutic exercises (strength, endurance, coordination, balance, and ROM.

2. Administers physical agents (modalities) and manual therapeutic technique to relieve pain and/or attain established goals as directed by the occupational therapist.

3. Utilizes effective techniques to assist in normalizing motor activity and learning.

4. Educates patients/families in home exercise programs and/or functional activities in order to maximize independent functional activity.

5. Implements treatment plan as necessary and determines when a patient has achieved optimal benefit of treatment under the supervision of an occupational therapist and the approval of the referring physician in order to maintain the quality of care.

6. Seeks and fosters interdepartmental communication and communication with the referring physician regarding patient care.

7. Performs all duties with proper body mechanics and safety to prevent injuries.

8. Documents in accordance to insurance guidelines and adheres to the department's policies and procedures.

9. Accurately and consistently fills out and submits charges daily.

10. Adheres to the professional code of ethics established by the AOTA and the facility at all times.

11. Supervises at least one affiliated student per year.

12. Participates in at least one departmental/system in-service, or community in-service.

13. Attends a continuing education course to further/improve treatment techniques.

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