Occupational therapist assistants (OTAs) work under the direction of an
occupational therapist in an effort to restore, reinforce, and enhance the
performance of patients with disabilities. They facilitate learning of the
skills and functions that are necessary for a patient's adaptation and
productivity in a real world environment. They also assist in evaluating a
patient's daily living skills and capabilities so that the prescribed
therapy can be custom tailored to a particular patient. Occupational
therapist assistants are called upon to help patients whose abilities to
carry on a normal way of life are threatened by physical injury or
illness, developmental defects, the aging process, psychological and
social disability, or poverty and cultural differences. They order
supplies and help maintain tools, equipment, and records. They may also be
responsible for monitoring a patient's progress and reporting any concerns
they have to the occupational therapist. OTAs might also be called upon to
direct activity programs that will ensure that the therapy goals are being
met. Anyone interested in this field of work should have good
communication skills and enjoy working with people with a wide range of
rehabilitative needs.
Work Environment:
Occupational therapist assistants work in a variety of environments. These
may include hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, long term
and intermediate care facilities, private homes, community mental health
agencies, schools and camps, and private practice.
High School Preparation:
High school students interested in becoming an occupational therapist
assistant should concentrate on courses in biology, algebra, chemistry,
English, physical education, computer skills, physical science,
psychology, sociology, and health occupations/ medical professions
education.
College Requirements:
Occupational therapist assistants must obtain an Associate's Degree from a
certified program. Following the completion of all educational
requirements, individuals must take a national examination in order to
become a certified occupational therapist assistant (COTA). This
certification is required to practice in the State of Mississippi.
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study
click here.
Career Outlook:
The career outlook for an occupational therapist assistant is excellent.
With an increasing number of individuals with disabilities or limited
function, the demand for OTAs is exceeding the number of qualified
personnel. There is an expected job market growth of over 36% over the
next eight years. A major reason for this demand is the advances in
medicine that have allowed patients to survive in greater numbers, and in
turn increase the demand for therapy. Another reason for this expected
increase is the fact that more people are living longer. This will cause
more and more elderly people to seek out therapy that will help them
maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle. |
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Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$35,200
Salary Range
$28,700-$39,300
Professional Organizations:
American Occupational Therapy Association
P.O. Box 31220
Bethesda, MD 20824
Phone: (301) 652-2682
www.aota.org
American Occupational Therapy Foundation
4720 Montgomery Lane
Bethesda, MD 20824-1220
www.oatf.org
Mississippi Occupational Therapy Association
921 N. Congress Street
Jackson, MS 39202
Phone: (800) 455-1679
Download our
Occupational Therapists Assistant brochure
here.
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