Occupational Therapist (Caregiver Support Program)

Quick Facts

• Role: Occupational Therapist

• Program: Caregiver Support Program (PM&RS)

• Key focus: OT evaluations, caregiver education, and functional assessments to support eligibility and care planning

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm (compressed/flexible; ad-hoc telework)

Description

Provide autonomous occupational therapy services within the Caregiver Support Program, including evaluations, needs assessments, case management support, wellness visits, and caregiver education for enrolled Veterans and caregivers. Act as a core interdisciplinary team member and, for PCAFC application/renewal, serve as the Clinical Assessor using standardized program assessments to evaluate functional needs (including personal care and 2 ADLs) and inform eligibility decisions. Coordinate recommendations with the CSP team and the Veteran’s care team, and deliver treatment in-home or at the medical center with required in-person privacy and confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Screen/triage OT cases and accept/respond to assigned cases per PM&RS and program policies

• Identify Veterans appropriate for this level of care and advocate for caregiver support services

• Serve as Clinical Assessor for PCAFC participation/renewal by assessing functional needs using program-approved standardized assessments (supporting CEAT eligibility determinations)

• Review patient data using the medical record and, as needed, remote data sources (e.g., VistaWeb, JLV, VHIE)

• Develop, implement, and communicate evidence-based OT intervention plans based on evaluation, patient goals, best evidence, and clinical reasoning

• Identify general contraindications to treatment

• Schedule and coordinate treatment with other VA services; provide care in the home setting or at the medical center (in-person; not virtual)

• Document OT services accurately in the medical record within required timeframes and standards

• Enter PM&RS consults (Physical, Occupational, or Recreational Therapy) and/or Prosthetics consults for rehabilitation equipment in accordance with competencies and policies

• Identify when patients have achieved maximum benefit and terminate services appropriately

• Participate in clinical education of OT/OTA students (supervise fieldwork Level I/II) and complete fieldwork evaluation forms

• Supervise official volunteers and cover administrative responsibilities when assigned

• Use VA computer systems for electronic documents and records and for CPRS access, email, and related administrative tasks

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship

• Proficient in written and spoken English

• Subject to background/security investigation

• Complete online onboarding and pre-employment requirements (I-9 identification required)

• Valid driver’s license

• Pass pre-employment physical examination

• Seasonal influenza vaccination program participation (VA requirement)

• Selective Service registration required for males born after 12/31/1959

• Trial period of 1–2 years as a condition of employment

• Current NBCOT certification

• Full, current, unrestricted state license to practice occupational therapy

• Education requirement met: Bachelor’s in OT + 2 years experience OR Bachelor’s in OT + 2 years graduate education in a related field OR Master’s degree or higher in OT (ACOTE-approved program)

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government includes a comprehensive benefits package; eligibility depends on the specific position and appointment type. Review the VA federal benefits details with the hiring agency for the exact coverage.