Orthotist-Prosthetist

This position functions primarily in the Rehabilitation & Technology Section of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) Service. The Orthotist/Prosthetist provides the appropriate orthotic and/or prosthetic devices & treatment by comprehensive examination of the patient & assessment of their individual needs & desires; formulation of a treatment plan; designs/selects, measures/casts the patient, fabricates & fits the device to the patient; documents & continues care with periodic examination. PRINCIPALES MISSIONS : Major Duties: Performs a comprehensive assessment of the patient to obtain an understanding of the patient's orthotic/prosthetic needs: Review patient's prescription/referral. Take a comprehensive patient history, including demographic characteristics, family dynamics, previous use of an orthosis/prosthesis, diagnosis, work history, vocational activities, signs and symptoms, medical history (including allergies to materials), reimbursement status, patient expectations and results of diagnostic evaluations. Assist in formulating the treatment plan by performing a diagnosis-specific functional clinical examination, including manual muscle-testing, gait assessment and evaluation of sensory function, cognitive ability, range of motion, joint stability, skin integrity and compliance. Consult with other health care professionals and caregivers about patient's condition to assist in formulating a treatment plan. Communicate with patient and/or caregiver about the recommended treatment plan, and any optional plans, to involve them in orthotic or prosthetic care; include disclosure of potential risks/benefits. Verify patient care by documenting history, ongoing care and follow-up, using established record-keeping techniques. Refer patient, if appropriate, to other health care professionals (e.g., psychologist, therapist, physician) for intervention beyond orthotic/prosthetic scope of practice. Create a comprehensive orthotic/prosthetic treatment plan to meet the needs and goals of the patient: Evaluate the findings to determine an orthotic/prosthetic recommendation. Formulate treatment goals and expected orthotic/prosthetic outcomes to reduce pain/increase comfort, enhance function and independence, provide stability, prevent deformity, address cosmesis and/or promote healing. Consult with physician/referral source to modify, if necessary, the original prescription and/or treatment plan. Identify material, design and components to support anticipated outcome. Develop a plan for patient needs, including patient education and follow-up. Document treatment plan using established record-keeping techniques to verify patient care. Perform the necessary procedures to deliver the appropriate orthotic/prosthetic services, which may include fabrication of the orthosis/prosthesis: Inform patient, family and/or caregiver of the orthotic/prosthetic procedure, possible risks and time involved in the procedure.- Prepare delineation/impression/template for modification/fabrication. Fabricate/assemble prescribed device by assembling selected materials and components to prepare for fitting. Assess device for structural safety and ensure that manufacturers' guidelines have been followed prior to patient fitting/delivery. Assess/align orthosis/prosthesis for accuracy in sagittal, transverse and coronal planes to provide maximum function/comfort. Complete fabrication process after achieving optimal fit of orthosis/prosthesis Educate/counsel patient and/or caregiver about the use and maintenance of the orthosis/prosthesis Document treatment using established record-keeping techniques to verify implementation of treatment plan. Provide continuing patient care and periodic evaluation to assure and maintain optimal fit and function of the orthosis/prosthesis: Solicit subjective feedback from patient and/or caregiver to determine status Assess patient's functional level, skin condition, general health, height, weight and not any changes. Assess fi

Salaire : $41,334 – $98,514/Per Year | Avantages : http://www.vacareers.va.gov/why-choose-va/benefits/index.asp

OUR MISSION: To fulfill President Lincoln's promise "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors" - by serving and honoring the men and women who are America's Veterans. How would you like to become a part of a team providing compassionate whole health care to Veterans? The South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) is comprised of two inpatient campuses: the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital in San Antonio and the Kerrville VA Hospital in Kerrville, Texas. The STVHCS serves one of the largest primary service areas in the nation, with 35 counties, and is part of the VA Heart of Texas Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN 17), with offices located in Arlington, Texas. Providing a service to Veterans with a working staff of more than 5900 employees, South Texas provides health care services for 114,000 Veterans. The STVHCS is a facility providing primary, secondary and tertiary health care in medicine, surgery,