Jessica Schultz
Pascoe Vale,VIC
Summary
Accomplished Senior Occupational Therapist with a proven track record at Opal Health Care, adept in implementing innovative care models and enhancing client independence. Expert in clinical assessments and passionate about mentoring, I excel in leadership and interpersonal communication, significantly improving patient outcomes and staff skill sets in diverse settings.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Occupational Therapist
Opal Health Care (formally Blue Cross)
08.2019 - Current
- As the sole Allied Health clinician at the residential aged care facility, I implemented a new model of care within the facility that aligned with the change in Federal funding from ACFI to AN-ACC and aligned with client needs.
- Ran various training courses for care and nursing staff on manual handling and specific client care needs.
- Supervised and mentored Occupational Therapy students and new graduates.
- Assessed client mobility and equipment needs, and made recommendations that ensured both client safety and the safety of care staff.
- Implemented and monitored recommended mobility aids and equipment to support optimal client care and staff safety.
- Developed and implemented personalized rehabilitation plans for clients returning from hospital with a range of conditions including stroke, acute fractures and injury, with a focus on client goals and optimising client independence and meaningful engagement.
- Developed and implemented treatment plans for clients with chronic conditions and age related conditions including Parkinson's Disease, Arthritis and frailty with a focus on maintaining client functional capacity and meaningful engagement.
- Developed and implemented strategies for clients with dementia to enhance self-care, manage challenging behaviour, and used sensory strategies for regulation and task engagement.
- Liaised with the multi disciplinary team, external health providers and family to ensure continuity of care and best client outcomes.
- Advocated for patients'' needs within healthcare settings, promoting optimal care provision and accessibility.
Occupational Therapist
The Royal Society for the Blind
09.2018 - 08.2019
- Assessed the needs of clients with vision impairment across all ages in a community setting and implemented strategies for independent living, including home modifications, equipment prescription, adaptive technology, and low vision strategies.
- Completed comprehensive assessment, documentation and reports to meet the requirements of various funding models including NDIS, My Aged Care and CHSP.
- Provided comprehensive services to meet the unique needs and challenges of individuals living in regional and remote areas with low vision.
Occupational Therapist
Can:Do 4Kids
02.2017 - 08.2018
- Launched Occupational Therapy career, developed expertise in documentation, assessment, and communication skills.
- Provided assessment, recommendations and implementation of strategies for children aged 2-18 years with sensory impairments, including vision, hearing, and autism, in both home and school settings.
- Implemented low vision, hearing, sensory, and behaviour management strategies to support client needs.
- Worked closely with families to enhance their skills in applying therapeutic strategies effectively, fostering greater independence and skill acquisition
Occupational Therapy Student
Active Inclusion
06.2014 - 06.2017
- While studying Occupational Therapy, I worked as a student therapist in the Aquatic Therapy Program for Children with Autism and Intellectual Disability.
- Worked one on one with children in an aquatic therapy setting to develop sensory regulation, social skills, fine and gross motor skills and basic swimming safety skills.
- Began to develop my communication skills and worked closely with both children and their care givers.
Education
Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) -
University of South Australia
Adelaide, SA11.2016
Skills
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work both autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Genuine passion for enhancing the lives of people of all abilities
- Strong leadership and mentoring skills
- Highly developed assessment, implementation and documentation skills in a variety of clinical settings and client presentations from acute to chronic, children to elderly and community to residential aged care
Timeline
Senior Occupational Therapist
Opal Health Care (formally Blue Cross)
08.2019 - Current
Occupational Therapist
The Royal Society for the Blind
09.2018 - 08.2019
Occupational Therapist
Can:Do 4Kids
02.2017 - 08.2018
Occupational Therapy Student
Active Inclusion
06.2014 - 06.2017
Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) -
University of South Australia
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