Occupational Therapist

Title:                        Occupational Therapist (OT)

Department:           Community Services

Location:                 Low Vision Rehabilitation Center (LVRC)

Wage Category:     Exempt

Report To:              Vice President, Community Services

Overview: Working as part of a low vision team, the Occupational Therapist (OT) is responsible for enhancing the daily living and working capabilities of blind and visually impaired clients, focusing on empowering patients to lead independent, productive lives through personalized instruction, training, and assessment.  This role involves implementing vision rehabilitation plans as authorized by referring physicians, Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS), Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), and other healthcare professionals. 

Clinical-Training and Evaluation

• Provide initial low vision and independent living evaluations to address clients identified goals and complete referrals in the best interest of the client.
• Supervise and support a team of Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA) to deliver training and instruction in the use of low-vision optical and non-optical vision aids, Activities of Daily Living (ADL), and Independent Activities of Daily Living (IADL) training, compensatory strategies, and adapted techniques.
• Work and collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team, including Certified Access Technology Specialist (CATIS), Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS), workforce development, and other division professionals to ensure all supportive training services are incorporated into client recommendations.
• Provide 25 hours weekly of direct service and consultation to persons of all disabilities, including seating and wheeled mobility assessments, home and worksite assessments, and other accommodations that will provide the individual more independence.
• Conduct individual and group assessments and training sessions on daily living and communication skills as per the client’s plan.
• Educate and train patients on the effective use of lighting, contrast, eccentric viewing, magnification, optical devices, and other adaptive technologies, as recommended.
• Provide guidance and support to patients' families and caregivers, keeping them informed of patient needs.
• Administers patient care in compliance with agency policy, law, and regulation, and according to the guidelines provided by the Occupational Therapy Practice Act, Occupational Therapy policies and procedures, and scope of care.
• Adhere to compliance standards, including Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) confidentiality and security, and Medicare/Medicaid documentation requirements.
• Flexibility to perform other duties as assigned.

Professional Development:

• Travel within Louisiana to provide occupational therapy assessment and training to patients if/when needed.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with physicians/optometrists to encourage referrals and promote the agency’s mission.
• Educate physicians/optometrists and patients about the agency’s outreach and services program and its benefits.
• Stay updated on current practices through literature review, conferences, seminars, continuing education, and certification requirements.
• Facilitate inter-agency cooperation and assist in determining needed services.
• Complete special projects, marketing, or other assignments to help meet program or agency needs.
• Actively participate in program planning, program development, and identification of unmet needs.
• Actively participate in CEUs to maintain Louisiana state licensure in addition to pursuing CEUs appropriate low vision certifications.

Data Collection

• Complete all evaluations, progress notes, discharge summaries, and other supplemental documentation in the client management software within the stated time frame.
• Perform monthly chart audits in line with private practice and/or rehabilitation agency policies and procedures.
• Document client activities, monitor progress, and adjust plans, as needed.
• Conduct research and gather data for physicians or clinicians, as needed.

Qualifications:

• Master’s or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy required.
• Current Occupational Therapist (OT) license for the State of Louisiana required.
• Current National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) required.
• Current Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT) certified by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) required or be working towards this certification within an agreed-upon timeframe.
• Current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification required.
• Two to four years of previous experience as an occupational therapist in a clinic or hospital setting is required. Experience working with disabled populations preferred.
• Ability to travel within Louisiana to remote locations.
• Ability to collaborate remotely with Community Services staff.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Possess interpersonal skills necessary to provide close support and consultation to other professionals.
• Must possess the ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.