LINEAGE CARE GROUP·Buffalo, New York
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant implements treatment plans under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist to help patients improve independence and functional ability in daily living activities within their homes. Responsibilities include providing direct treatment, training patients and caregivers, and accurately documenting patient responses and progress.
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides occupational therapy services to patients in their homes under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist (OTR). The COTA implements treatment plans established by the Occupational Therapist to support patients in achieving improved independence, safety, and functional ability in activities of daily living within the home environment. We strive to be an employer of choice: Competitive Wages Paid Time Off Sick Days Medical, Dental, Life Insurance 401(k) (eligibility based on full-time/part-time status) Tuition Reimbursement Uniform Allowance Other Perks Key Responsibilities: The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant works under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Provide occupational therapy treatment as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist and according to the established plan of care. Assist patients in improving their ability to perform activities of daily living, including dressing, bathing, grooming, meal preparation, and home management tasks. Provide instruction and training to patients and caregivers on adaptive techniques, energy conservation strategies, and safe functional mobility within the home. Assist in fitting and training patients in the use of adaptive equipment, orthotics, and assistive devices as directed by the Occupational Therapist. Observe and report patient responses to treatment and any changes in functional status to the supervising Occupational Therapist. Participate in ongoing assessment of patient progress and communicate relevant findings to the Occupational Therapist. Implement therapeutic exercise programs, neuromuscular reeducation, and functional training activities as directed by the Occupational Therapist. Prepare patients and caregivers for discharge by reinforcing education and implementing discharge plans developed by the Occupational Therapist. Complete timely and accurate documentation in the patient’s medical record in accordance with agency policies, Medicare guidelines, and New York State regulations. Communicate with members of the interdisciplinary home care team including nursing, physical therapy, speech therapy, social work, and home health aides as appropriate. Participate in case conferences, care planning meetings, and interdisciplinary discussions as required. Provide recommendations regarding patient needs, equipment, home modifications, or additional services to the supervising Occupational Therapist. Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and agency policies. Participate in required in-service training, continuing education, and professional development activities. Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervising Occupational Therapist or department manager. Working Environment: Work is performed primarily in patient homes and community settings. Travel between patient locations is required. Work schedules are typically Monday through Friday but may vary based on patient needs and agency requirements. srpp
Education and Training: Graduate of an Occupational Therapy Assistant program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) and approved by the American Occupational Therapy Association. Must hold current certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant and be licensed and registered with the New York State Education Department.
Experience in home care, community health, or geriatric rehabilitation is preferred but not required. The entry-level COTA should demonstrate an understanding of the aging process, chronic conditions, and functional rehabilitation in the home setting.
Must possess good moral character, patience, compassion, and the ability to work independently while providing care in patients’ homes. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer. Applicants and employees are considered for positions and are evaluated without regard to mental or physical disability, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status or any other protected Federal, State/Province or Local status unrelated to the performance of the work involved.
Candidates must be a graduate of an ACOTE-accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program and hold current certification, along with being licensed and registered with the New York State Education Department. Experience in home care or geriatric rehabilitation is preferred, but entry-level candidates demonstrating understanding of aging and functional rehabilitation are also considered.
Market context
In New York, allied health employers commonly look for radiologic technologists with ARRT certification and a New York State license or temporary permit, and experience is often preferred. These roles can be competitive because facilities want candidates who can start safely and work efficiently in fast-paced imaging settings. On this platform, job requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time; before applying, confirm your certification timeline and license status match the posting.