Occupational Therapist

Roles and responsibilities

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Occupational Therapist (OT) with a valid Department of Health (DOH) license to join our dynamic healthcare team. The successful candidate will play a key role in providing individualized therapeutic services to patients with physical, emotional, or developmental conditions, helping them improve their daily functioning and quality of life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough assessments of patients' physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities to determine their occupational needs.
• Develop and implement customized treatment plans to address a wide range of conditions (e.g., developmental disabilities, injuries, chronic illnesses).
• Assist patients in improving daily living skills, including self-care, work, and leisure activities.
• Educate patients and their families on adaptive techniques and strategies to enhance independence.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team (doctors, nurses, physical therapists, etc.) to ensure a holistic approach to patient care.
• Monitor patient progress, adjusting treatment plans as necessary and documenting outcomes in patient records.
• Provide guidance and support to other healthcare professionals and caregivers working with patients.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of occupational therapy practices and continuing education to ensure compliance with the latest standards and regulations.

Qualifications:

• Valid Occupational Therapist license issued by the Department of Health (DOH).
• Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Proven experience as an Occupational Therapist in a clinical or healthcare setting (preferred).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a compassionate and patient-focused approach.
• Ability to assess and analyze patient needs, develop treatment plans, and monitor progress effectively.
• Strong knowledge of adaptive equipment and techniques.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (preferred).

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift or assist patients with mobility tasks as needed.
• Comfortable working in a healthcare setting that may involve extended periods of standing or walking.

Desired candidate profile

1. Assessment and Evaluation

• Evaluating physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities: OTs assess a person’s abilities, limitations, and environment to design personalized therapy plans.
• Functional assessments: Analyzing how a person completes daily activities and where they may need assistance or adaptations.

2. Therapeutic Techniques

• Sensory Integration: OTs use sensory activities to help individuals process and respond to sensory input, especially for those with developmental disabilities.
• Motor skills development: Assisting with fine and gross motor coordination (e.g., handwriting, using tools).
• Cognitive rehabilitation: Working with patients on improving memory, problem-solving, and decision-making.

3. Intervention Planning and Implementation

• Personalized treatment plans: Tailoring therapy based on an individual’s goals and needs, whether it’s post-surgery rehabilitation or working with children with autism.
• Adaptive techniques and equipment: Recommending or training individuals in the use of adaptive devices or strategies to improve independence (e.g., assistive technology, modified utensils).

4. Education and Training

• Patient education: Teaching patients and their families strategies for improving or maintaining independence.
• Caregiver training: Educating family members or caregivers on how to support the patient’s daily activities.

5. Communication Skills

• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team: OTs often work with physical therapists, speech therapists, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a holistic treatment plan.
• Listening and empathy: Establishing rapport with patients to understand their challenges and needs.

6. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

• Developing creative solutions: Using innovative methods or modifications to help clients engage in meaningful activities.
• Adapting therapy techniques: Continuously adjusting therapeutic approaches to meet evolving needs.

7. Cultural Competency

• Understanding diverse populations: Sensitivity to different cultural backgrounds and values when working with diverse clients.

8. Time Management and Organization

• Managing multiple cases: Balancing schedules and ensuring timely follow-ups and interventions for various patients.

9. Emotional Support and Motivation

• Building resilience: Helping individuals cope with chronic conditions, disabilities, or injuries, and encouraging them to maintain a positive outlook.