Occupational Therapist Assistant job description

An Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA) works under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working, directly contributing to enhanced patient independence and quality of life which reduces long-term healthcare costs and improves overall client outcomes for the organization.

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What is a Occupational Therapist Assistant?

An Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA) is a skilled healthcare professional who supports occupational therapists in implementing treatment plans for patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. They work directly with clients to help them regain or develop the necessary skills for everyday activities, promoting independence and improving their overall quality of life. OTAs are essential members of the rehabilitation team, ensuring that therapeutic interventions are carried out effectively and efficiently.

What does a Occupational Therapist Assistant do?

An Occupational Therapist Assistant assists in executing treatment plans designed by occupational therapists, which includes guiding patients through therapeutic exercises and activities. They help patients practice daily living skills such as dressing, eating, and grooming, and may also educate family members on how to support the patient's progress. Additionally, OTAs document patient responses to treatments, monitor progress, and communicate findings to the supervising therapist to ensure continuous and adaptive care.

Job Overview

Occupational Therapist Assistants (OTAs) work under the supervision of licensed Occupational Therapists to help patients develop, recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. OTAs implement therapeutic interventions, document patient progress, and provide essential support in rehabilitation settings across healthcare facilities in the United States.

Occupational Therapist Assistant responsibilities include:

1. Implement individualized treatment plans developed by Occupational Therapists 2. Assist patients with therapeutic activities and exercises to improve motor skills, coordination, and daily living activities 3. Document patient progress and report observations to supervising Occupational Therapist 4. Set up and maintain therapy equipment and treatment areas 5. Educate patients and family members on home exercise programs and adaptive techniques 6. Monitor patient responses during sessions and adjust activities as needed 7. Maintain accurate patient records in compliance with HIPAA regulations 8. Collaborate with healthcare team members to ensure coordinated patient care
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Must-Have Requirements

1. Associate's degree from an ACOTE-accredited OTA program 2. Current state licensure/certification as an OTA 3. CPR and Basic Life Support certification 4. Knowledge of therapeutic techniques and rehabilitation principles 5. Understanding of medical terminology and documentation requirements 6. Ability to follow treatment plans and supervisor directives 7. Strong interpersonal and communication skills 8. Physical stamina to assist patients with mobility and transfers

Preferred Qualifications

1. 1+ years of experience in rehabilitation or healthcare setting 2. Experience with specific patient populations (geriatric, pediatric, neurological) 3. Familiarity with electronic medical records systems 4. Additional certifications in specialized therapy areas 5. Experience in multiple healthcare settings (hospital, outpatient, SNF) 6. Knowledge of Medicare/Medicaid documentation requirements 7. Bilingual abilities in Spanish or other commonly spoken languages 8. Experience with adaptive equipment and assistive technology

Bonus Skills

1. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) designation 2. Experience with teletherapy platforms and remote patient monitoring 3. Specialized training in hand therapy or neurorehabilitation 4. Knowledge of value-based care models and outcome measurements 5. Experience with functional capacity evaluations 6. Background in mental health occupational therapy 7. Proficiency with rehabilitation technology and adaptive devices 8. Community outreach or program development experience

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