PACE Certified Occupational Therapist

Position Summary:

The Occupational Therapist (OT) is a Member of the Interdisciplinary Team of the San Diego PACE Program and is responsible for the design and implementation of a program of occupational therapy for PACE patients to help them to remain independent and live safely in the community. The OT performs assessments of PACE patients and develops individualized plans of care, is responsible for determining the appropriate approach to be used in developing function to a maximum level and supervises the carrying out of the plan of care by support staff. Performs reassessments as indicated.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Develop and implement a program of occupational therapy for patients enrolled in PACE and accessing day services.
• Perform assessments of patients to determine abilities.
• Develop and implement an individualized plan of care to decrease or eliminate disability, increase or maintain capability for independence, and develop function to a maximum level.
• Ensure that the individual plan of care is being followed by qualified support staff.
• Guide patients and caregivers in the use of adaptive devices and therapeutic, creative and self-care activities for improving function.
• Perform assessments as indicated. Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and modify goals as necessary. Traveling required as indicated.
• Conducts home, hospital, and other site visits as needed and indicated by IDT and/or Center Manager.
• Record and sign treatments in the patient’s health record. Record, sign, and date quarterly progress notes. Review and initial all evaluations and the discharge summary.
• Ensure services provided are in a therapeutic setting conducive to restoring dignity and self-esteem to all patients.
• Excellent attendance and punctuality.
• Ensure that required equipment and supplies for the occupational therapy program are available or ordered as needed.
• Develop personnel policies that define the occupational therapy responsibilities and the duties assigned to the Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• Will conduct home treatments, assessments as required/needed.
• Will assist in conducting trainings to other staff members (including CNAs/PCAs, etc.) as requested.
• Keeps abreast of all regulations and standards to ensure compliance with orders or directives issued by duly constituted government/regulatory agencies (PACE, CMS, DHCS, etc.)
• Participate in training programs for staff and caregivers.