Occupational Therapist - Home Health/Hospice (0.8 FTE)

Responsible for evaluation, planning, directing and administrating Occupational Therapy (OT) modalities to individuals that will promote independence and quality of life. Occupational therapy is prescribed by a licensed physician.

Develops an individualized plan of care for the patient in an effort to improve, sustain or restore independence to individuals who have had an injury, illness, disability or cognitive dysfunction.

The Occupational Therapist will assist patients to reach their maximum performance goals through learning life skills, develop or regain physical or mental functioning or adjust to disabilities by implementing programs involving manual arts and crafts, practice in functional, prevocational, vocational, and homemaking skills, activities of daily living, and sensorimotor, educational, recreational, and social activities.

Promotes maximum independence by selecting and constructing therapies according to individual's physical capacity, intelligence level, and interest.

Provides direct patient care in the home or setting where the patient refers to as home. The OT is under the direction of the Director or designee.

Performs detailed and accurate assessments utilizing a standardized assessment (OASIS) of patients and completes documentation in a timely and accurate manner according to home health policy and regulatory requirements.

Facilitates patient hand-offs and provides assistance to move the patient through the care continuum. Works collaboratively with other members of the healthcare team, physicians, and the community emphasizing a teamwork environment. Understands the principles of financial stewardship and accessing community resources.

Ability to implement quality care standards for patients served. Coordinates provision of patient care for assigned patients, maintains competency levels annually and attends continuing education as applicable. Delegates appropriate tasks as needed. Works with the Director and/or Clinical Manager/Coordinator to assure patient visits are being provided as outlined in the plan of care.

COMMUNICATION: Demonstrates good communication skills to facilitate implementation of quality core measures, attends meetings and weekly case conferences. Maintains open communication with the interdisciplinary team.

Maintains open communication with the Director and/or clinical coordinator in relation to patient assignments, responsibilities or patient concerns. Utilizes appropriate chain of command to collaboratively and proactively problem solve as needed.

Diffuses patient/family complaints prior to involving the Director or clinical coordinator. Attends education when offered related to competencies or changes in processes. Understands regulatory and compliance standards to assure the provision of safe, cost effective and quality care. Attends committee meetings as assigned by the Director.

ADAPTABILITY: Has a “can do” attitude, promotes team-work, and a no-blaming environment while setting the tone for the department by being a good role model. Maintains a positive attitude and flexibility regarding fluctuating patient census and staffing needs. Demonstrates critical thinking skills and actively completes assignments, documentation per agency policy. Able to prioritize and multi-task when the department gets busy. Remains calm during stressful times.