Certified Hand Therapist

Houston Methodist•Pearland, TX

20h

About The Position

The Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) evaluates patients with a broad range of hand and upper-extremity diagnoses and acuities, develops and implements individualized therapy plans of care, and monitors patient progress. The therapist educates patients, family members, and caregivers, and collaborates with healthcare professionals to resolve problems and achieve patient-specific goals. As part of the direct patient-care team, the CHT provides care directly and through delegation to Occupational or Physical Therapist Assistants and Technicians, with responsibility for the care they deliver and a focus on safety, customer service, and optimal outcomes. The CHT serves as a preceptor, mentor, and resource to less experienced hand and upper-extremity staff, including therapists, assistants, and technicians. The role may also include clinical instruction for students, Residents, and Fellows. The position supports departmental projects, teaching and community opportunities, program development, clinical competencies, and continued professional development as a Certified Hand Therapist.

Requirements

Graduate of an education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s).
Completion of an HM or comparable Occupational or Physical Therapy Residency program, or three years of experience as a Physical or Occupational Therapist.
Required state license in Occupational Therapy or Physical Therapy.
Current BLS - Basic Life Support or Instructor certification from the American Heart Association.
Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) certification through HTCC.
Demonstrated skills and competencies necessary to perform the assigned job safely.
English speaking, reading, and writing proficiency sufficient to perform the job’s essential functions, particularly those affecting patient or employee safety and security.
Ability to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, family members, and coworkers using a customer-service focus and positive language.
Ability to work independently and handle challenging therapy procedures and patient-care situations using sound judgment and above-average clinical skills.
Strong interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership skills, with a commitment to excellent customer service.
Proficient computer knowledge and ability to operate multiple computer systems and standard rehabilitation equipment.
Professional and technical competence in selecting, evaluating, and using treatment plans.

Responsibilities

Evaluate patients across a broad range of hand and upper-extremity diagnoses and acuities, determine their functional level, and develop and implement treatment plans.
Educate patients, their family members, and caregivers about therapy and care.
Collaborate with the healthcare team and communicate relevant patient information, treatment-plan changes, progress, and discharge planning.
Regularly assess patients and modify goals or treatment plans as indicated; recognize and proactively address complications or limitations associated with procedures.
Identify opportunities for corrective action and process improvement and contribute to quality and safety targets.
Oversee patient care delivered by Occupational or Physical Therapist Assistants and Technicians, adjusting activities as needed to ensure quality outcomes and patient safety.
Serve as a preceptor, mentor, and resource to less experienced therapists and provide guidance to assistants, technicians, and support staff.
Assist with precepting students in clinical rotations and therapy residency or fellowship programs; may serve as a clinical instructor.
Use time and equipment efficiently, manage assigned patient loads, maintain timely and accurate documentation, and enter charges for services provided as applicable.
Participate in departmental projects and approved hospital or community teaching, service, and other activities.
Assist higher-level therapists with program development and clinical competencies, and pursue continued professional development.