Occupational Therapist

General Purpose

The Occupational Therapist (OT) is responsible for evaluating residents and developing individualized treatment plans aimed at improving functional abilities in activities of daily living (ADLs). The OT helps residents regain independence, adapt to physical or cognitive limitations, and enhance their quality of life. This role ensures care is delivered in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards within a skilled nursing setting.

Responsibilities

Assessment & Planning

· Perform initial and ongoing assessments of residents’ functional status and therapy needs.

· Develop personalized care plans focused on increasing independence in ADLs, including dressing, grooming, toileting, and other functional activities.

· Establish short- and long-term therapy goals in coordination with the interdisciplinary team.

Therapeutic Intervention

· Provide direct occupational therapy services, including exercises, functional training, and adaptive techniques.

· Modify environments and train residents in the use of assistive devices and adaptive equipment to support safety and performance.

· Supervise and guide Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) to ensure treatment is delivered according to the OT plan of care.

Documentation & Compliance

· Accurately document evaluations, progress notes, daily treatment records, and discharge summaries.

· Ensure documentation meets Medicare, Medicaid, and third-party payer requirements.

· Maintain compliance with federal, state, and facility policies, including HIPAA and CMS regulations.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

· Participate in care plan meetings and contribute to overall resident care strategies.

· Communicate effectively with residents, families, and care teams regarding treatment goals and progress.

· Provide education and training to residents, caregivers, and staff as needed.

Qualifications

· Degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.

· Current, unrestricted state licensure as an Occupational Therapist.

· Experience in skilled nursing, post-acute, or rehabilitation settings preferred.

· Knowledge of federal and state regulations, including Medicare, Medicaid, and CMS standards.

· Strong clinical assessment and problem-solving skills.

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration with residents, families, and interdisciplinary teams.

· Ability to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.

· Competence in supervising therapy assistants and supporting team development.

· Commitment to patient-centered, evidence-based care.

· Regular and reliable attendance is required to perform the essential functions of this position.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

· Facility-based work in a skilled nursing or post-acute care environment.

· May require standing, walking, bending, lifting, and assisting residents during therapy sessions.

· Ability to manage multiple residents and priorities in a fast-paced clinical setting.

· Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds at a time.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

· Direct patient-facing work in resident rooms, therapy gyms, and common areas

· Frequent interaction with residents, families, and interdisciplinary staff in a collaborative care setting

· Occasional exposure to bodily fluids or medical materials while assisting patients

· Work may involve standing, walking, bending, lifting, or guiding patients during therapy sessions

· Environment requires adherence to safety, infection control, and proper use of therapy equipment

Disclaimer

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.