Occupational Therapy Assistant

Job TitleOccupational Therapy AssistantDutiesClinicalAssists with the screening, evaluation and re-evaluation process by implementing specifically delegated assessments for which competency has been established and by providing verbal or written reports of observations and client capacities to the OT.Receives and interprets instructions from the OT. This includes completing a thorough review of the OT evaluation, treatment plan and patient data and coordinating to ensure that any necessary clarification is obtained.Utilizes more complex therapeutic techniques and interventions, utilizing problem-solving skills, to maximize client's functional status.Modifies and adapts therapeutic interventions for simple and complex cases with a wide range of diagnoses and disabilities.Identifies and recommends complex adaptive and assistive devices and durable medical equipment.Contributes to the discontinuation or transition plan by providing information and documentation to the supervising occupational therapist related to the client's needs, goals, performance and appropriate follow up resources.Schedules and coordinates treatment with other VA services.Carries out client education, specialized treatments, and applies occupational therapy procedures for which competency has been established and in accordance with laws or regulations and AOTA documents.Knowledgeable about the client's targeted therapy outcomes and provides information and communication to the supervising OT when clients have attained established goals and/or when modifications to the treatment plan may be required.Documents OT services in the medical record within the timeframes, formats and standards established by the PM&RS department and VACCHCS.Communicates needs or concerns to the supervising OT, to the interdisciplinary discharge planning team or through direct communication with personnel from other VA services.Provides education and consultation to health care practitioners about the client's treatment plan and occupational therapy scope of practice and services.Provides education to clients, caregiver, family regarding treatment interventions, e.g., adaptive equipment, approaches, environmental set-up, etc.AdministrativeParticipates in OT department and PM&R service program development and quality improvement projects to include but not limited to peer reviews, committee membership and process improvement projects.Carries out ongoing personal development to ensure current knowledge in their work position and occupational therapy practice. Maintains and displays current knowledge by attending seminars, courses and actively reviewing professional journals.Assists with education of the medical center staff about the role of OT and services available for veterans.Participates in the clinical education of Fieldwork Level I OT students or Fieldwork Level I or II OTA students including completion of fieldwork evaluation forms.Completes all VAMC mandatory training in a timely manner.Uses the computer system for storing and retrieving electronic documents and files, transmitting and receiving e-mail, activating printers, requesting leave, and accessing the electronic health record.Maintains clinical areas, equipment and supplies in a clean and organized manner to promote quality treatment in a safe and functionally appropriate environment.Serves management's goal of optimum productivity and adjusts services to meet changing needs of the veterans served in various programs.Helps resolve client issues/complaints at the lowest level and refers unresolved grievances and complaints to appropriate sources.Follows policies and procedures (operational, privacy, IT security, etc.). Promotes and ensures a safe work environment. Follows established time, attendance, and leave procedures.Assists OT supervisor to ensure all employees work in a safe, clean, infection-free environment and promotes these practices among all employees.Fosters an environment that values and respects individual differences. Takes an active role in prevention of harassment behavior and adheres to policies.Other duties as assignedPreferred experience in short term rehab, skilled nursing setting and acute care setting.Work Schedule: M-F 8am - 4:30pmTelework: Not AvailableVirtual: This is not a virtual position.Functional Statement #: 09584FRelocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not AuthorizedPermanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized