Job description
Job Summary:
The Occupational/Physiotherapist assistant (OTA/PTA) under the direction of a Directing Therapist, provides therapy services to individuals in the home within the framework of VON policies, procedures, standards and quality & risk management. Collaborates with members of the health care team to meet the needs of individuals to attain an optimal level of functional and physical independence and well-being in their home environment.
Responsibilities:
- Performs the activities of daily living and associated exercises as directed by the therapist. Activities/responsibilities may include:
- Verifying client information by interviewing client under the direction of a therapist
- Reviewing medical history
- Confirm purpose of care plan with the Directing Occupational Therapist /Physiotherapist
- Collaborates with patients to improve their quality of life by helping them compensate for limitations, such as, teaching patients to dress themselves independently, bathe themselves, to prepare meals and/or to access community resources to increase their independence
- The OTA/PTA will follow a care plan (treatment plan) completed by the Directing Therapist. Focus on a holistic approach that assists the patient to reach their goals. For example
- Activities of daily living
- Use of equipment (patient assisted devices and modify the home environment to ensure patient safety and independence
- Safe transfers in the home environment
- Exercise program (optimize functional and physical abilities to improve strength and endurance)
- Monitor and report patient outcomes to the Directing Therapist
- Under the Direction of the Therapist will perform standardized functional and physical assessments (i.e. Berg balance scale)
Qualifications:
- Diploma for Occupational / Physiotherapist Assistant program (accredited college) and/or Kinesiology degree and/or
- Certificate in health related discipline (Rehabilitation coach, Rehabilitation assistant) and/or
- Individual who has completed on-the-job training from a recognized organization (institution) that is occupational therapy and physiotherapy specific
- Recently demonstrated knowledge of stroke best practices preferred
- Recently demonstrated knowledge of musculoskeletal (i.e. arthroplasty) best practices preferred
- Medication Assistance (Med Assist process)
- A current and original copy of a satisfactory Criminal Records Check is required upon the start of your employment
- Ability to speak French is an asset in French Designated areas
- Valid driver's license in the Province of Ontario, use of reliable vehicle, current car insurance coverage as per VON policy
- Current criminal background check will be requested
- A Vulnerable Sector Search and/or Child Abuse Registry check may be required