Occupational Therapy Assistant

Medical University of South Carolina•Santee, CA

About The Position

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) will support occupational therapists in the planning and implementation of therapy programs for patients across various settings. Responsibilities include administering therapeutic exercises, activities, and other interventions, modalities and strategies to improve patients’ functional abilities and quality of life. The role requires maintaining accurate documentation, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, ensuring patient safety and comfort, and demonstrating consistent attendance and reliability. The COTA will also stay current with evidence-based practices and adhere to institutional policies, guidelines, and protocols to provide the highest standard of care.

Requirements

Valid certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant ( COTA ) .
State licensure in South Carolina .
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.
Compassion, patience, and empathy when working with patients.
Knowledge of occupational therapy principles and techniques.
Understanding of relevant laws and regulations governing occupational therapy.

Responsibilities

Implement treatment plans as directed by the supervising occupational therapist, administering therapeutic exercises, activities, and interventions.
Adapt and progress within scope of practice limitations and communicate findings to supervising occupational therapists (or other team members) as applicable based on best practices.
May provide mobility support and screenings if indicated and appropriate .
Monitor and document patients' progress, communicating status changes to the supervising occupational therapist.
Adjust treatments based on patients' responses and feedback from the occupational therapist.
Collaborate with occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic patient care.
May participate in care conferences to discuss patient progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
Effectively communicate with patients, their families, team members, and other partners and stakeholders to foster a collaborative and patient-centered approach to care.
Perform point-of-service documentation where possible.
Ultimately, ensure accurate and timely recording of patient progress, treatment interventions, and charges (or comparable information as applicable).
Maintain patient records in compliance with legal and institutional requirements.
Engage in continuous learning and professional development to maintain licensure and provide high-quality care.
Stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in occupational therapy.
Follow all institutional policies, guidelines, and protocols related to patient care and safety.
Maintain compliance with ethical and professional standards in occupational therapy.
Actively promote an excellent experience for all patients, families, team members, and other partners and stakeholders.
Maintain productivity standards as delineated in departmental key performance indicators (KPIs).
Ensure patient safety during therapy sessions, adhering to infection control protocols, and maintaining or supporting a safe environment of care.
Instruct patients in the proper use of adaptive equipment and assistive devices to promote independence.
Educate patients and their families on techniques, exercises, and strategies to support treatment goals outside therapy sessions.
Demonstrate consistent attendance and reliability to ensure continuous patient care and departmental efficiency.
Perform additional duties as outlined by the manager or director.
Maintain occupational therapy equipment and inventory of departmental supplies.
Provide appropriate and timely documentation and updates for all parties involved (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, therapy team members, patient access team members, fitness team members, sports medicine team members, other care team members, patients, families, supervisors, etc.) and support a safe and secure environment of care.