Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Under the direction of an Occupational Therapist, plans, coordinates, and administers diverse occupational therapy programs for wounded, ill, and injured service members, as well as other beneficiaries.

Actively involved in the preparation of progressive treatment plans, utilizing the full range of occupational therapy modalities and the application of extensive judgment, observation, and treatment skills.

Completes required data collection for workload management and analysis and research studies as directed.

Uses problem-solving skills to make recommendations for the use of various occupational therapy modalities as prescribed.

Ensures designated treatment plan maximizes results in promotion of healing and pain relief while ultimately improving the patient's functional independence.

Instructs and reviews all home program precautions and contraindications with patients and family members on use of physical modalities and/or adaptive equipment needs for home environment.

Provides instruction to patients in a variety of exercise programs, functional activity, and activities of daily living to optimize independent living skills.

Shares technical expertise with other therapy assistants, occupational therapy students and other interdisciplinary team members.

US Department of War