Occupational Therapist

Scope and Summary

The Occupational Therapist (OT) assists clients of all ages to improve their ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environment. They complete assessments, develop treatment plans, and provide independent living skills training, intervention strategies, recommendations, reports, and service coordination to clients, caregivers, and families.

Operating under the philosophy and scope of Occupational Therapy, the therapist applies science, knowledge, skill and compassion to work with individuals with vision loss. This position also collaborates with external health care providers to identify needs, support care plan goals, and strengthen communication and care planning linkages across sectors. The OT ensures timely access to information, learning opportunities, and support for individuals with vision loss to achieve the following outcomes:

• Increased system capacity to provide navigation support

• Improved client experience within the health care system

• Enhanced capacity for individuals to remain in their own homes and engage in activities supporting independence and community interaction

• Connection to the right services at the right time and place

• Improved overall health and well-being

II. Essential Functions

The position entails, but is not limited to, the following responsibilities:

• Perform assessments related to:

o the client's capacity to independently participate in activities of daily living

o the use of assistive devices and equipment

o accessible design and the built environment

• Plan, develop, deliver, and evaluate individual or group specialized services in consultation with clients and their families.

• Plan and coordinate environmental and/or task modifications.

• Develop ergonomic recommendations and act as a key resource in occupational performance

• Provide low vision functional advice.

• Support and provide consultation to individuals and their families regarding adjustment to vision loss.

• Act as a clinical services coordinator to liaise with external service providers.

• Participate in case conferences and consult with other health care team members.

• Plan for the closure of a care plan when goals are achieved.

• Monitor and maintain accurate client records.

• Provide consultation, public education, support, and teaching about vision loss.

• Act as a representative for the organization within the occupational therapy profession.

• Maintain professional registration and continuous professional development.

Relationships

• Establish and build positive working relationships at all levels.

• Work as part of a team and independently as required.

• Interact with clients, their families, and caregivers to develop rehabilitation plans of care.

• Build and maintain relationships with professionals in other agencies and community groups.

• Educate community partners about the organization and its specialized services.

• Participate in multi-disciplinary team meetings.

• Advocate on clients' behalf in medical clinics, schools, etc.

• Instruct, delegate to and supervise students, vision rehab assistants, and OT assistants where appropriate.

• Engage in problem-solving and develop strategies to address barriers in coordination/integration of supports and services.

Problem Solving / Time Frame of Impact

• Utilize task analysis and problem-solving abilities related to intervention and rehabilitation.

• Adapt services, materials, and equipment to address the needs of individuals with complex health conditions.

• Report concerns and ensure appropriate care in case of critical incidents.

• Be sensitive and aware of cultural, religious, mental health, and emotional needs.

Decision Autonomy

• Make decisions based on training and experience working with individuals with visual impairments.

• Utilize judgment for assessment and treatment methods.

• Determine scheduling efficiency for service delivery, including frequent visits to client homes.

• Recognize limitations and consult with subject matter experts and Regional Manager as required.

Leadership

• Provide leadership and guidance when training and supervising rehab assistants, family, caregivers, students, and…