Occ Therapy Asst Cert

Community Health Systems•Hattiesburg, MS

About The Position

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides rehabilitative services for children and adults under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR), assisting patients in achieving functional goals related to daily living and mobility. The role supports treatment planning by implementing prescribed therapeutic interventions, observing and reporting patient progress, and contributing to continuity of care in alignment with individualized care plans and regulatory standards. The position is full-time days at Merit Health Wesley. The COTA administers treatment programs as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist, documents treatments and patient responses, communicates with rehabilitation and healthcare team members, and helps maintain safe treatment areas and equipment.

Requirements

0–1 years of healthcare experience with adults, geriatrics, or individuals with physical disabilities.
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) license in the state of employment.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Knowledge of occupational therapy principles, techniques, and assistive devices.
Ability to follow treatment plans, observe patient performance, and accurately document clinical data.
Effective communication and collaboration skills in a multidisciplinary environment.
Understanding of patient safety, infection control practices, and age-appropriate care.
Proficiency with basic computer systems and electronic documentation platforms.

Nice To Haves

1–2 years of clinical experience in an inpatient, outpatient, or skilled nursing setting.

Responsibilities

Administer occupational therapy treatment programs across diverse patient populations as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist, in accordance with individualized patient care plans and established standards.
Observe patient responses to treatment, report changes in condition, and make recommendations to the supervising therapist about potential treatment plan modifications.
Conduct group or individual activity-based therapy sessions to support or maintain function within the COTA scope of practice.
Document treatments provided, patient responses, and relevant observations in the medical record, ensuring progress notes are co-signed by the supervising Occupational Therapist when required.
Communicate with supervising therapists, rehabilitation team members, nursing staff, and other healthcare providers to support coordinated care.
Maintain clean, organized, and safe treatment areas and equipment, and promptly report safety concerns or equipment issues.
Apply therapeutic precautions, contraindications, and age-specific needs when administering care.
Attend interdisciplinary team meetings, contribute to patient care discussions, and support performance improvement initiatives.
Use required technical and documentation systems, including electronic health records and therapy documentation software.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
Comply with all policies and standards.