Occ Therapy Asst Cert

Community Health Systems Professional Services Corporation•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). The role assists patients in achieving functional goals related to daily living and mobility by implementing prescribed therapeutic interventions, observing and reporting patient progress, and supporting continuity of care in alignment with individualized care plans and regulatory standards. The COTA administers occupational therapy treatment programs as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist, conducts individual or group activity-based therapy sessions within the COTA scope of practice, and documents treatments and patient responses. The position works collaboratively with therapists, rehabilitation team members, nursing staff, and other healthcare providers, while maintaining safe treatment areas and equipment. The role is full-time, day shift, at Merit Health Wesley.

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 for diverse patient populations as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist and in accordance with individualized care plans and established standards.
Observe patient responses to treatment, report changes in condition, and recommend potential treatment-plan modifications to the supervising therapist.
Conduct individual or group activity-based therapy sessions to support or maintain function within the COTA scope of practice.
Document treatments, patient responses, and relevant observations in the medical record, and ensure progress notes receive the supervising Occupational Therapist’s co-signature as required.
Communicate effectively 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; 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.
Demonstrate proficiency with 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.