Jobs in Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapists and Therapy Assistants
Occupational therapists (OT) and certified occupational therapy assistants (COTA) are critical to helping patients improve their ability to perform every-day functions that have been compromised from disabling conditions. TheraStaff appreciates the treatment our occupational therapists and therapy assistants provide and commends the dedication and skills they bring to our clients’ medical facilities, their patients and residents.
TheraStaff’s Occupational Therapists
Our occupational therapists meet the requirements for entry into the field by ensuring they’ve graduated from an accredited school with the proper degree and licensure by the state they practice in. Most of our OTs have more than a couple years of experience but at minimum are required to have one year of post-degree work in an area of specialty. We also ensure all documentation, credentials, skills and knowledge of applicable laws and regulations is up to date.
In conjunction with the guidelines outlined by TheraStaff, our occupational therapists work under doctors’ orders. Typically, our occupational therapists work in hospital environments and other facilities such as private practices, skilled nursing facilities, public and private schools and home healthcare careers.
Employment Outlook for Occupational Therapists
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the employment of occupational therapists will increase 23% between 2006 and 2016, much faster than the average for all other occupations. “It’s definitely no surprise to the healthcare industry that as the elderly population continues to age, so will the need for occupational therapists and therapy assistants,“ says Bill Stone, founder and CEO of TheraStaff.
Because baby boomers are projected to be the primary receiver of this type of care, the BLS forecasts that acute hospitals, rehabilitation facilities and orthopedic settings will be the primary medical environments where these professionals are needed.
TheraStaff’s Occupational Therapy Assistants
Our certified occupational therapy assistants perform duties under physicians’ orders and the direct supervision of occupational therapists, and comply with state regulations governing their duties. We require that our COTAs graduate from an accredited program with the proper degree or certificate and licensing.
Since most COTAs receive the bulk of their training on the job, our therapy staffing agency requires that they have no less than one year of experience within the past three years to be a part of our team. This ensures our occupational therapy assistants have up-to-date skills and are able to practice with minimal supervision.
Outlook for Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs
As expected, the BLS reports this profession to grow much faster than average, with a 25% increase from 2006 to 2016 due to many of the same reasons that the demand for occupational therapists will grow: the aging baby boomer generation.
And, according to the BLS, use of therapy assistants by occupational therapists is expected to rise to reduce overall costs associated with therapy services; once a treatment plan has been determined, the assistant can provide much of the therapy needed as directed by the occupational therapist. Future job prospects for COTAs, says the BLS, are very good for those with experience in the field and credentials above a high school diploma.
How’s your employment outlook? Submit an online application now for occupational therapist or therapy assistant jobs in your area through TheraStaff.