Certified Hand Therapist

Overview At Houston Methodist, the Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) position is responsible for evaluating and developing therapy plans for a broad range of hand and upper extremity diagnoses and acuities. As an experienced Therapist, this position provides education to patients, families, and caregivers, and collaborates with other health care professionals to resolve problems and achieve patient goals. The CHT provides direct patient care and delegates tasks to Occupational or Physical Therapist Assistants and Technicians, ensuring adherence to safety standards and customer service. Additionally, the CHT serves as a preceptor, mentor, and resource to less experienced staff, and may act as a clinical instructor to students, residents, and fellows. Qualifications Graduate of an education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) indicated below in the Certificates, Licenses and Registrations section. Completion of an HM or comparable Occupational or Physical Therapy Residency program, or three years of experience as a Physical or Occupational Therapist. Licenses and Certifications Occupational Therapy or Physical Therapy state license. BLS - Basic Life Support or Instructor (AHA) - American Heart Association. CHT - Certified Hand Therapist (HTCC) - Healthcare Technology Certification Commission. Skills and Abilities Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, demonstrated via ongoing competency assessments. Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing English to perform essential functions, especially in safety‑critical contexts. Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, families, and coworkers in a customer‑service focused manner. Increasing expertise in treatments for hand and upper extremity patients. Independently manages challenging procedures and uses sound judgment. Strong interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership skills with all levels of the healthcare team. Proficient computer knowledge; operates multiple computer systems and standard rehabilitation equipment. Professional and technical competence in selection, evaluation, and utilization of treatment plans. Essential Functions People Promotes a positive work environment and collaborates with the hand and upper extremity patient care team. Preceptor, mentor, and resource to less experienced therapists. Teaches and provides guidance to assistants, technicians, and support staff; assists students and residents. Service Performs complete evaluations of patients with hand and upper extremity conditions. Develops and implements individualized treatment plans. Provides education to patients, families, and caregivers. Collaborates with the healthcare team to adjust treatment plans, progress, and discharge planning. Quality/ Safety Regularly assesses patient progress and modifies goals, plan or program as needed. Identifies complications and proactively addresses them to optimize outcomes. Provides oversight of care delivered by assistants and technicians, ensuring quality outcomes and safety. Contributes to departmental and hospital quality and safety targets. Finance Uses resources efficiently to maximize time and equipment use. Maintains accurate documentation of patient education and procedures; enters charges for services. Growth/ Innovation Participates in departmental projects and community teaching opportunities. Assists higher‑level therapists with program development and clinical competencies. Seeks opportunities for continual development as a Certified Hand Therapist. Supplemental Requirements Work Attire Uniform: No Scrubs: Yes Business professional: No Other (department approved): Yes On‑Call No on‑call required. Note that employees may be required to be on‑call during emergencies (disaster, severe weather events, etc.) regardless of current selection. Travel May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area: Yes May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area: No #J-18808-Ljbffr Houston Methodist