Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

AcuteCare Health System LLC

About The Position

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) works under the direct supervision of an Occupational Therapist to provide high-quality, participant-centered care that promotes independence, safety, and functional ability. This role involves implementing therapeutic activities and interventions based on individualized treatment plans to support participants’ physical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs. The COTA collaborates closely with the interdisciplinary team (IDT), caregivers, and families to ensure continuity of care and progress toward treatment goals. The position requires strong communication, clinical skills, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for participants in alignment with organizational values and standards.

Requirements

Completion of an Associate Degree Program in Occupational Therapy Assistant from an accredited institution- Required
Pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to earn the title of Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
Obtain state licensure as required, adhering to specific regulations for practice.
Completion of Level I and Level II Fieldwork to gain supervised, practical experience in various care settings (e.g., rehabilitation centers, schools, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities). Experience in specific settings (e.g., long-term care, hospice, or rehabilitation)-Preferred.
Minimum of 1 year working with the elderly population required. If this is not present, training will be provided upon hire (If applicable for the role).
Must have reliable transportation, a valid driver's license, and the minimum state required liability auto insurance.
Be medically cleared for communicable diseases and have all immunizations up to date before engaging in direct participant contact.
Pass a comprehensive criminal background check that may include, but is not limited to, federal and state Medicare/Medicaid exclusion lists, criminal history, education verification, license verification, reference check, and drug screen.

Responsibilities

Assist participants with ADLs (e.g., grooming, dressing, meal preparation) to promote independence, dignity, and safety.
Deliver therapeutic interventions under OT supervision, using adaptive equipment and techniques to support functional improvement.
Carry out individualized treatment plans, adapting techniques to meet participants’ progress and needs.
Use creative solutions to promote engagement and achieve therapy goals.
Ensure safe transfers, ambulation, and mobility, educating participants and caregivers on proper use of assistive devices.
Observe, document, and report participant progress and changes accurately in the EMR.
Communicate concerns promptly to the OT or interdisciplinary team.
Work with the interdisciplinary team to provide holistic, participant-centered care.
Participate in IDT meetings, sharing valuable updates and insights.
Support participants in group and individual activities that promote physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
Participate regularly in all quality assurance/quality improvement initiatives as part of the overall quality improvement program.
Follow BoldAge PACE policies, safety protocols, and ethical guidelines while maintaining HIPAA and OSHA compliance.