Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) - Full-Time

Summary/Objective:

The occupational therapist assistant carries out the individualized patient therapy care plan as developed by the occupational therapist.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Patient Care

• Provides therapy services as developed by the occupational therapist under the therapy care plan goals.
• Submits clear and appropriate documentation in a timely manner and documents patient education in the medical record.
• Communicates effectively with physicians, supervisors, and coworkers in a timely manner.
• Assess functional problems and provide intervention, in conjunction with the occupational therapist, to work towards functional goals. Reports any concerns to the occupational therapist or Clinical Director.
•  Complies with agency policies and procedures. Promotes and maintains an agency environment in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
•  Counsels the patient and family in meeting related needs.
•  Provides health care instructions to the patient as appropriate per assessment and plan of care.

Communication

• Prepares clinical notes and updates the primary physician when necessary.
• Communicates with the occupational therapist regarding the patient’s needs and reports any changes in the patient’s condition.
• Communicates with community health related persons to coordinate the care plan.

Additional Duties

• Ensures that arrangements for equipment and other necessary items and services are available.
• Attend in-service training and mandatory agency meetings.
• Maintains a professional appearance.

Work Environment

The responsibilities of this position involve significant physical activities including standing, lifting, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling and twisting. The employee must be a licensed driver with an automobile that is in good working order and insured in accordance with the organization requirements. The employee may experience a change in work conditions related to weather issues, traveling in rain, snow, etc., and must be able to adapt to the work environment to meet patient care needs.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

Education and Experience

• Possesses a degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program with either an Associate’s degree in science or applied science that is approved by American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.
• Current licensure in state and CPR certification.
• Two years of appropriate experience as an occupational therapist assistant. Community/home health experience preferred.
• Excellent observation, verbal and written communication skills, and problem solving skills.
• Prolonged or considerable walking or standing. Able to lift, position or transfer patients. Able to lift supplies and equipment. Considerable reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling or crouching. Visual acuity and hearing to perform required skills.