Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Elara Caring•East Lansing, MI

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Elara Caring is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) to provide home health care across Eaton County, Grand Ledge, Charlotte, and surrounding areas. The role supports patients in their homes by implementing rehabilitation care plans established by Occupational Therapists and helping deliver coordinated, high-quality care. The position requires an active Michigan COTA license and travel within the branch or office coverage area, including travel of up to 50%. The work can be physically demanding and high stress, may involve irregular hours and call hours if applicable, and requires frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, and supporting of up to 50 pounds.

Requirements

Graduate of a certified occupational therapy curriculum established by the Occupational Therapy Association.
Current, unrestricted COTA certification in the state of work; this role requires an active Michigan COTA license.
At least one year of experience as a COTA in a clinical care setting.
Able and willing to travel within the branch or office coverage area, including travel of 50%.
Dependable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and current auto insurance in accordance with state laws.
Ability to frequently lift, push, pull, and support up to 50 pounds, including positioning or transferring patients and moving equipment.

Responsibilities

Promote Elara Caring’s philosophy, mission statement, and administrative policies to ensure quality of care.
Assist with rehabilitation needs by following a plan of care based on the Occupational Therapist’s findings.
Make routine visits and reevaluate patients’ therapy needs during each visit.
Communicate significant findings, problems, changes in condition or environment to the appropriate supervisor, Occupational Therapist, physician, and other care team members.
Verify the Plan of Care before each visit and provide care according to physician’s orders, assessment data, and established standards and guidelines.
Counsel and instruct patients and caregivers on therapy needs and the home exercise program, and request clarification or modifications when needed.
Promote compliance with fiscal intermediary and third-party payer requirements through education, coaching, and assistance.
Identify and report potential payment or coverage problems to the appropriate supervisor.
Maintain knowledge of and comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including Medicare, Medicaid, and third-party reimbursement requirements.
Maintain continuity and quality of patient care.
Communicate with clinical staff about schedule updates, patient data or needs, physician orders, and special instructions.
Enter clinical notes promptly and document ongoing communication and coordination with physicians, staff, and other disciplines.
Take available actions to prevent avoidable hospitalizations and emergency room visits.