Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

The COTA will be able to identify patients/customers: Inpatients, Outpatients, Home Health/Hospice patients, Sub-Acute Unit patients (neonates to geriatrics). The COTA will carry out all appropriate aspects of a plan of care developed by a Occupational Therapist including: performing treatment as indicated, assessing patients' response to treatment, and assisting with discharge planning. Under the guidance of a Occupational Therapy plan of care, the COTA will utilize exercise, equipment, and physical agents to improve strength, balance, coordination and range of motion, and to decrease pain to restore a patient's optimal mobility and functional ability. The COTA provides education related to the treatment program, disease process, and prevention of further injuries to the patient, family/caregiver and other members of the healthcare team. The COTA will coordinate, delegate, and supervise responsibilities assigned to supportive staff (Rehabilitation Techs, LATs, etc.). The COTA may be asked to create and participate in Community Engagement activities that focus on healthy lifestyle promotion, preventative medicine, and wellness topics. The COTA will participate in operational and performance improvement aspects of the department. The COTA will maintain awareness of budgetary and fiscal responsibility as it pertains to wages, overtime, productivity, and continuing education. The COTA will ensure that documentation is complete and charges are accurately entered on a timely basis. The COTA will participate in all mandated departmental and organizational educational programs.

Created: 2025-11-27