DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves planning and administering treatment programs for medically referred patients consisting of therapeutic activities, self-help techniques and assistive devices to prevent, reduce or remedy the disabling effects of illness, injury and birth defects. This is a professional position with responsibility for planning and administering occupational therapy treatment to patients in accordance with the physician's referral and established rehabilitation goals. Work is performed under the general supervision of higher-level professional staff. The incumbent instructs and supervises lower-level technical personnel in assisting with treatments and follow-up procedures. The position requires the exercise of independent judgment in developing rehabilitation programs for individual patients. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: Evaluates the physical, psychosocial, and perceptual dysfunction of referred persons as related to the need for occupational therapy, which may include driver rehabilitation services; plans, administers and supervises treatment procedures, involving selective use of creative, manual and industrial arts and crafts, recreational; educational and other activities, fabrication of hand splints, assistive devices, self-help techniques, etc.; Coordinates occupational therapy with other patient care services concerned with restoration and maintenance of the patients optimal level functions; Evaluates and makes recommendations for training in another occupation more consistent with the patients' present capabilities; Works with contractors, designers and architects to provide equipment, furniture or accommodations appropriate for handicapped patients; Reports to the patient's physician regarding the patient’s treatment status and makes recommendations for modifications of treatment and rehabilitation objectives; Keeps accurate records on treatment and makes written reports on patients’ progress for inclusion in the patients’ medical record; Attendance at conferences and clinics relating to patient care which may include driver rehabilitation services.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Good knowledge of the principles, objectives and techniques of occupational therapy treatment and the driver rehabilitation services (if assigned); good knowledge of materials and equipment and their application or use in a progressive therapy program; ability to apply principles and practices of occupational therapy; ability to plan, direct and layout activities adapted to a patient's particular disability; concern and understanding for the handicapped; emotional maturity; manual dexterity; ability to work within a multi-disciplinary treatment team; ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse constituency; sound professional judgment; capable of performing the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A.) Possession of a license to practice Occupational Therapy in New York at time of appointment and maintenance throughout duration of appointment.
B.) Possession of a Limited Permit to practice as an Occupational Therapist in New York State as issued by the New York State Education Department at the time of appointment and licensed as an Occupational Therapist in New York State as issued by the New York State Education Department within one year and maintenance of license throughout duration of appointment.
Civil Service Competitive Class — Must be an eligible candidate on the Civil Service Occupational Therapist list OR eligible for transfer. If not, the appointment will be provisional.