The Hand Therapy team at the University of Vermont Medical Center is comprised of multi-talented occupational and physical therapists who work directly with on-site hand surgeons and upper extremity physician assistants.

Hand Therapist responsibilities include management of post-operative and sub-acute upper extremity orthopedic injuries. As a Level 1 Trauma Center, UVMMC serves patients of all ages across Northern Vermont and New York.

Our focus is provision of high quality, evidence based and effective care in a busy, fast-paced, yet collaborative and nurturing environment.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Occupational/Physical Therapist / Hand Therapist

• Provides direct patient care including evaluations, consultations, and treatment programs based on functional limitations and patient needs.
• Designs, implements, and modifies therapeutic interventions that may include, but are not limited to, therapeutic exercise, functional training, manual therapy, (including soft tissue and joint mobilization); custom orthosis fabrication, physical agents/ modalities; and patient-related education (including home exercise program).
• Educates patients about anatomy/kinesiology, diagnosis, pathophysiology, joint protection, and ergonomics to prevent additional injury and to promote wellness.
• Communicates regularly with a variety of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, medical office assistants and case managers to ensure successful patient treatment outcomes.
• Responsible for the ongoing development of clinical skills through continuing education, networking across the hand therapy profession, literature/evidence review, and participation in professional organizations.
• Participates in clinical staff education, meetings and quality improvement projects that support current best practice.
• Performs documentation in accordance with UVMMC standards and in a timely manner consistent with all laws and regulatory requirements.
• Manages caseload effectively and uses excellent time management, organizational, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Maintains complete and accurate billing practices. Assists support staff in maintaining insurance authorizations.
• Protects patients' rights by maintaining confidentiality of personal and financial information.
• Complies with all pertinent rules and regulations within the State Practice Act and AOTA / APTA Codes of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science (or higher) degree from an Accredited Occupational Therapy or Physical Therapy program. Licensed or eligible to for licensure to practice occupational or physical therapy in the state of Vermont.

Preferred: Certified by the Hand Therapy Certification Commission.

EXPERIENCE:

3-5 years of experience in outpatient orthopedics is ideal, will consider a new graduate with strong hand therapy skills/ clinical experience who is interested in pursuing the CHT.

CHT preferred.