Recreation Therapist- Outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Company: usagov
Location: Salt Lake City
Posted on: May 28, 2023

Job Description:

Summary
Recreation Therapist provides treatment interventions incorporating the four-step process of assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patient treatment services. Duties will be aligned with the Outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation program. Collaboration with outpatient Rehab team including Physician, PT, OT, and Prosthetics service. In order to develop evaluations and programming, designed to meet the goals and expectations of veterans admitted to this program.
This job is open to

• The public
  U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S. Clarification from the agency
  All US Citizens
  ** If you ARE A CURRENT Permanent federal employee, please apply to vacancy announcement CBSU-11955350 -23-AS which is open to current federal employees****
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  Duties
  Veterans in this program typically have a primary diagnosis of a physical disability such as amputation, spinal cord injury, stroke, MS, Parkinson's, ALS, TBI, blind or visual impairments. In addition, these veterans may also have other medical or mental health diagnoses.
  Recreation Therapists are integral members of the treatment teams and work within an interdisciplinary team approach to identify patient needs and goals and develop treatment plans appropriate to the individual.
  Incumbent typically serves as the lead Recreation Therapist for the National Disabled Veterans
  Winter Sports Clinic and the National Veterans Wheelchair Games.Evaluates, establishes goals based on evaluation findings, and develops treatment interventions.
  • Implements and modifies as necessary treatment plan and goals as needed throughout course of treatment to ensure optimum outcomes.
  • Recreation Therapist is expected to perform documentation of patient care including assessments, progress notes, encounters, consultations, care plans, and other reports in a thorough and timely manner as needed according to facility policy.
  • Uses Recreation Therapy expertise for direct service delivery to patients. Acts as a subject matter expert to staff, students, and other healthcare professionals.
  • Serves as Recreation Therapy representative on interdisciplinary teams as assigned or needed.
  • In consultation with patients, their families, and caregivers, Recreation Therapist shall educate as required regarding treatment interventions and goals, in addition to any consideration involving adaptations to better ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
  • Demonstrates ability and competency in treating patients that range in age from young adult to geriatric who may experience complex medical or mental health issues.
  • Demonstrates ability to provide appropriate Recreation Therapy interventions in both individual and group-based sessions.
  • Develops communication plan and coordinates efforts of RT team and other staff and volunteers for the successful veteran team participation at National Veterans Wheelchair Games and National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic
  • Primary point of contact for veteran applications to these two national RT events (NDVWSC, NVWG)
  • Adheres with Medical Center and PM&R policies.
  • Participates in the evaluation of equipment and supplies, which affect their service delivery.
  • Fosters and maintains a safe treatment area and environment.
  • Promotes effective communication with all patients, caregivers, treatment team members, Medical Center staff and community partners.
  • Maintains professional competence through participation in appropriate educational activities.
  • Maintains sound understanding of outpatient Rehab Service philosophy of care and focuses therapeutic intervention on sound Recreation Therapy principles.
  • Assists in teaching and providing learning experiences for Recreation Therapy clinical interns as required.
  • Participates in staff orientation, successfully completes Medical Center assigned mandatory trainings, and in-service activities.
  • Deliver treatment in compliance with Veterans Health Administration (VHA) accrediting agencies and VHA directives. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm
    Telework: Ad-hoc
    Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
    Functional Statement #: GS-7 51590-O, GS-9 51591-O, GS-11 51592-O
    Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
    Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
    Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
    Requirements
    Conditions of Employment
    • You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
    • Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
    • Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
    • You may be required to serve a probationary period.
    • Subject to background/security investigation.
    • Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
    • Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
    • Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details. Qualifications
      Basic Requirements:
      • United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
      • English Language Proficiency. Must be proficient in spoken and written English, as required by 38 U.S.C. - 7403(f).
      • Education: The following education requirements apply to the recreation therapist, creative arts therapist (art), creative arts therapist (dance/movement), creative arts therapist (drama), and creative arts therapist (music):
        
        • (a) A bachelor's degree or higher, from an accredited college or university, with a major in therapeutic recreation or recreation/leisure, with an option and/or emphasis in therapeutic recreation. The degree must be approved by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC);
        • OR
        • (b) A bachelor's degree or higher in any field from an accredited college or university and must be a certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS). The degree must be approved by the NCTRC. If hired under this education, the certification cannot be waived.
        • Required Certification: Recreation Therapist. Applicants must be certified in recreation therapy as a CTRS by the NCTRC. If hired under paragraph 3b(1)(b), certification cannot be waived. have been submitted to a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. The private organization must deem such education at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. programs.
          
          • Exception. Non-registered and/or non-certified applicants, who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for registration and/or certification, may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate recreation or creative arts therapist, under the authority of 38 U.S.C. - 7405(c)(2)(B), for a period not to exceed two years. Applicants who fail to obtain registration and/or certification during this temporary full-time appointment may be terminated. The exception only applies to positions at the GS-7 and GS-9 level. For grade levels at or above the full performance level, the candidate must be registered and/or certified.
            • Grandfather Provision: May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). All persons employed in VHA as a recreation or creative arts therapist, on the effective date 06/07/2019 of this qualification standard, are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series, and grade held, including positive education, and registration and/or certification that are part of the basic requirements of the occupation. For employees who do not meet all the basic requirements in this standard, but who met the qualifications applicable to the position at the time they were appointed, the following provisions apply
              Grade Determinations:
              Recreation Therapist, GS-7
              • Experience/Education None other then basic requirements. Recreation Therapist, GS-9
                • Experience/Education. At least one year of creditable experience at the next lower grade level GS-7, or a master's degree in recreation therapy may be substituted for the required one year of professional recreation therapist experience. AND
                  • Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:
                    • Knowledge of assessment tools and treatment for the diagnosis or disability of the patient.
                    • Knowledge to interpret and apply all health and safety regulations, to minimize and mitigate risks in the provisions of patient care, and environmental maintenance.
                    • Ability to effectively communicate and educate patients, families, caregivers, and other health care professionals to facilitate the treatment process.
                    • Knowledge to apply evidence-based and best practice therapeutic techniques and interventions. Recreation Therapist, GS-11
                      • Experience. At least one year of creditable experience at the next lower grade level GS-9. AND
                        • Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:
                          • Ability to adapt assessment tools and treatment interventions to address the complexity of the diagnosis or disabilities and demonstrate the clinical reasoning necessary to identify the need for further in-depth specific assessment of function and utilization of unconventional methods and techniques.
                          • Knowledge to independently interpret provider referrals and consults; and apply all health and safety regulations to minimize and mitigate risks in the provision of patient care and the environment of care
                          • Skill in effectively communicating and educating, in a clear and concise manner, with patients, families, caregivers, and other health care professionals to facilitate the interdisciplinary treatment process.
                          • Skill in independently utilizing appropriate screening and evaluation techniques required to appropriately provide direct patient care in areas such as, but not limited to recommendations for recreation therapy assistive devices, including fit and function.
                          • Skill in independently applying evidence-based and best practice therapeutic techniques and interventions.
                          • Knowledge of the principles and techniques in recreation therapy assessment and the treatment of recreation, leisure, and biopsychosocial functional deficits.
                            Preferred Experience: 2 years Experience as a Recreation Therapist working with physical disabilities and adaptive sports and recreation.
                            References: VA Handbook 5005/111 PART II APPENDIX G60
                            The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-7 to GS-11.
                            Physical Requirements: Ability to walk, drive, or to get to all clinics daily requires standing, bending, and sitting as well as carrying moderately heavy objects up to 50 lbs. Due to the complexity of the work, the multiplicity of projects at any one time, and deadlines, the job may be psychologically stressful at times. The incumbent must also be able to perform all activities of the position without restriction. The position involves the ability and capacity to assist patients that are unable to be functionally independent and direct them towards greater levels of independence.
                            Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019
                            Education
                            IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
                            Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
                            Additional information
                            Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
                            This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
                            This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
                            VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
                            Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
                            If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
                            • Benefits
                              A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
                              Review our benefits
                              Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered. How You Will Be Evaluated
                              You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
                              IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, r--sum--, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
                              Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
                              The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
                              It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
                              Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
                              • Benefits
                                A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
                                Review our benefits
                                Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
                              • Required Documents
                                As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.
                                To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
                                
                                • Resume VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: About VA Form 10-2850C - Veterans Affairs.
                                  The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
                                  • Cover Letter
                                  • DD-214/ Statement of Service
                                  • Disability Letter (VA)
                                  • VA 10-2850c
                                  • Other (2)
                                  • Other (3)
                                  • Professional Certification
                                  • Resume
                                  • SF-15
                                  • SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
                                  • Transcript Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
                                    If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
                                    Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
                                    Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
                                  • How to Apply
                                    All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 05/30/2023 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11955351.
                                    • To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
                                    • Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package. NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
                                      To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
                                      Agency contact information
                                      Amy Snow
                                      Phone
                                      801-582-1565 X4465
                                      Email
                                      Amy.Snow@va.gov
                                      Address
                                      VA SALT LAKE CITY HCS 500 Foothill Drive Salt Lake City, UT 84148 US
                                      Next steps
                                      Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
                                      You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
                                      NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
                                    • Fair and Transparent
                                      The Federal hi...

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