Rehabilitation assistant explained

Rehabilitation Assistants (RAs), also referred to as occupational therapist assistants (OTAs) and physiotherapist assistants (PTAs) are members of the health care team who work under the supervision of an occupational therapist or a physiotherapist to improve a client's or patient's quality of life.

Scope of Practice

In British Columbia, Canada rehabilitation assistants are not allowed to assess clients but can modify treatment plans set by the physiotherapist and/or occupational therapist.

Education

Preferred education in Canada is the completion of a 2-year full-time diploma from an accredited rehabilitation assistant program.

Responsibilities

• Implementing the rehabilitation program as directed by physiotherapist or occupational therapist
• Teaching group and individual exercise programs
• Wheelchair mobility training
• Instructing patients in self care and instrumental activities of daily living
• Assisting in making, modifying, and adapting self-help devices and equipment.
• Application of hot or cold modalities as instructed

Areas of Practice

• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation Centres
• Mental health
• Extended care
• Private practice
• Community health
• School District

See also

• Occupational therapist
• Physiotherapist

References

• http://www.bcphysio.org/app/member/pdfs/Position_Paper_Final_version.pdf
• http://www.caot.ca/pdfs/CAOT-Poster.JPG
• http://www.caot.ca/pdfs/SupportPer_Profile.pdf
• Workplace Physiotherapy