Work Type: Per Diem, As needed, PRN. 

Compensation: Based on experience and qualifications

What is PACE?

PACE, or Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, is an alternative care model for those over 55 years of age requiring nursing home level of care which aims to keep participants living at home in the community. PACE is a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach which coordinates all levels of medical and social needs, including prevention, wellness, socialization, primary care, and access to specialists and other services.

The Occupational Therapist evaluates and treats participants upon referral by the Interdisciplinary Team in accordance with the order from the physician. Provides treatment through a variety of therapeutic procedures and activities, as well as the use of assistive devices and adaptive equipment, with the intent of maximizing functional potential and safety for the participant. The Occupational Therapist reports to the PACE Medical Director.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conducts an initial Occupational Therapy assessment and scheduled and as-needed reassessments for all PACE participants.
• May participate in completion of Determination of Need (DON) document as part of PACE enrollment eligibility assessment.
• Performs all functions and duties as required as a member of the PACE Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), including, but not limited to, participation in IDT meetings, family conferences, grievances, service determination requests, CMS audits.
• Coordinates with IDT in developing individualized plans of care for each PACE participant.
• Develops and implements an individualized treatment plan and goals based on the IDT (Interdisciplinary Team) recommendation and the patient needs as identified in the evaluation.
• Selects and administers appropriate objective tests and measures to facilitate the identification of needs, risks, and change of status and uses that information to develop an appropriate care plan in coordination with the IDT.
• Participates in the PACE Quality Improvement program, as indicated.
• Revises treatment plans and goals as needed throughout the treatment process.
• Establishes and instructs participants and caregivers in safety recommendations, adaptations, exercises, and therapeutic home exercise programs as indicated.
• Completes all required documentation in a timely manner.
• Provides oversight and supervision of the Occupational Therapist Assistants (OTAs) in accordance with the Illinois State Practice Act.
• Provides training and support to PACE staff as needed to support participant needs.
• Actively shares clinical insights & recommendations on how to best address each participant’s unique needs in accordance with the professional scope of care.
• All care is provided in accordance with the philosophy and essential functions of PACE, the Illinois State Practice Act, and the AOTA.

• Must possess valid driver’s license and documentation of current automobile insurance at PACE organization-specified levels.
• Bilingual (preferred). 
• Must have a Master’s Degree or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution.
• 2 years’ experience preferred, a minimum of one-year experience with the frail and elderly required.
• Must be licensed and registered in the state of Illinois as an Occupational Therapist.
• Must be certified in CPR/BLS (Basic Life Support) by the American Heart Association.

Esperanza Health Centers is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) according to Title 44, Ill. Administrative Code, and Subpart C Section 750.150.