Benefits of working in the field of Rehabilitative Medicine/Support

There are many jobs that you can go into within the healthcare field. Each has their own benefits but one of the most rewarding is a career in the field of rehabilitation and therapy. Jobs in occupational therapy are a popular option for students looking to start their medial careers and who want to have an impact on the lives of others. Occupational Therapists Assistants (OTAs) as well as Physical Therapy Assistants are licensed professional assistants who work alongside the medical professionals that offer their services to individuals who are suffering from physical, mental, or emotional issues and who need help with daily actions and functions, such as walking, moving, feeding, and dressing.

About Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs

OTAs work with people of all ages – infants to seniors – who have any number of medical problems, disabilities or other health-related issues. OTAs and PTAs work to assist doctors and nursing staff who work closely with people who have limited ability to move and/or function and offer a way for these individuals to live and function and also work to help them regain their mobility and independence. Infants and toddlers who need help crawling and walking or seniors who have trouble getting around or those recovering from major surgery or injury can all use the help and expertise of an Occupational Therapist Assistants and Physical Therapy Assistant.

Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description

These professionals and their assistants develop specially tailored treatment programs that fit the specific and unique needs of each individual patient they work with. They also work with their patients in order to help them achieve a level of mobility that is desired. This may take only a few weeks, or it can take years – it all depends on the severity of the issue and the personal limitations and abilities of the individual patient. These therapy professionals can enjoy many benefits in their line of work, including flexibility, travel, and the ability to make an impact in the lives of others. OTAs and PTAs working with young children can know they are making a difference in the life of someone and can give them a better quality of life. The same is true when working with the elderly as OTAs and PTAs can help them maintain their independence and identity and improve their quality of life.

Job Duties

Typical jobs within this field can involve a range of patients and can also be carried out in a number of different locations- they may also involve one or more of the following:

• · Assisting patients with basic tasks needed for day to day functioning
• · Helping patients improve strength and dexterity through exercise and training
• · Developing specialized training and learning programs tailored to each patient’s needs
• · Assessing the progress and effectiveness of prescribed treatment and adjusting as necessary

Settings for Jobs

Occupational therapy and physical therapy jobs can happen in many settings, the most common being:

• · Hospitals – working with patients recovering from accident, injury, or surgery
• · Rehabilitation centers – working with long term care and needs after serious injury
• · Community outpatient centers – assisting with as needed help and assistance
• · Nursing homes – helping older patients with basic day to day tasks
• · Schools – working with young patients to improve their quality of life and education
• ·Private homes- some professionals work in the patient’s home for long term personalized care