Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

AccordCare & Family of Companies•Maitland, FL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides high-quality, compassionate, goal-oriented care to patients in their homes under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT). The COTA delivers therapy services in accordance with the physician’s Plan of Care, applicable state and federal regulations, and agency policies. The role supports safe, effective, individualized rehabilitation outcomes and positive relationships with patients and families while advancing the agency’s mission and clinical excellence. The position includes providing therapeutic treatments that promote mobility, strength, and performance of activities of daily living; implementing OT-directed treatment plans; collecting and documenting information relevant to evaluation and care planning; monitoring progress; and educating patients and caregivers as directed. The COTA collaborates with patients, families, physicians, interdisciplinary team members, contracted providers, and community health resources to support continuity of care. The COTA works in patient care environments that may include private homes, assisted living facilities, or clinical settings, and travels throughout the service area daily to visit patients. The role involves frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and occasional patient lifting or transfers using proper body mechanics and assistive devices. Tasks may require safely lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling up to 50 pounds, sustained physical activity, and responding quickly in emergencies. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Employment is contingent on screening through the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse.

Requirements

Current, active COTA license in the state of practice and in good standing.
One year of experience as a COTA; home health experience preferred.
Current CPR certification.
Strong communication and documentation skills.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Valid driver’s license, reliable automobile, and active auto insurance as required for patient travel.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.
Commitment to patient-centered, safe, and compassionate care.
Ability to safely lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
Ability to tolerate prolonged physical activity, including standing and walking.
Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.
Ability to travel throughout the service area daily to visit patients or clients.
Completion of a screening through the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse.

Nice To Haves

Home health experience as a COTA.

Responsibilities

Implement therapeutic interventions and assist patients in regaining or improving functional independence under the direction of the OT.
Provide therapeutic treatments that promote mobility, strength, and performance of activities of daily living.
Implement treatment plans and recommend modifications to the OT based on patient progress and tolerance.
Collect and document data and observations relevant to the OT’s evaluation and Plan of Care.
Monitor patient progress and provide timely feedback to the supervising OT.
Educate patients and caregivers on exercises, adaptive equipment, and safety techniques as directed.
Reinforce teaching and self-care techniques developed by the OT.
Maintain communication with patients, families, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure continuity of care.
Accurately complete and submit timely documentation in accordance with agency timelines, standards, and billing and reimbursement requirements.
Participate in interdisciplinary case conferences, in-service education, and QAPI initiatives as assigned.
Adhere to federal and state regulations, agency policies, and accreditation standards.
Uphold patient confidentiality and report privacy or safety concerns; follow infection control, universal precaution, and safety procedures.
Identify and appropriately respond to emergencies, and promptly report incidents, changes in patient condition, or concerns to the supervising OT or Clinical Manager.
Maintain clinical competence and participate in ongoing professional development.
Exhibit professionalism, accountability, and collaborative communication within the care team; represent the agency positively with patients, families, and community partners.
Collaborate with contracted service providers and community health resources as needed.
Manage time effectively to meet productivity standards while ensuring quality care delivery.
Use agency resources appropriately and support the agency’s mission.
Assist in orientation or mentoring of new staff when requested.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the delivery of quality care.