Tracey Borkwood
Perth,Australia
Summary
Motivated and skilled registered Occupational Therapist with extensive experience working with older adults in acute, sub-acute, and community settings. Currently a Senior Community OT, specializing in the assessment and therapeutic management of older clients on Home Care Packages. Adept in developing customized therapy plans, improving functional independence, and enhancing the quality of life for elderly clients. Strong clinical reasoning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and creative therapeutic interventions have led to significant improvements in client outcomes. Passionate about aging in place and supporting older adults through evidence-based practice and continuous learning.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Occupational Therapist (Casual)
Compass OT Services
Perth, Australia
02.2024 - Current
- Provide comprehensive home assessments for older adults on Home Care Packages, focusing on improving function, safety, and wellbeing.
- Conduct person-centered interventions addressing falls, cognitive decline, dementia care, pressure management, and functional deterioration.
- Assess and recommend home modifications, from basic to complex, to support independent living.
- Prescribe adaptive equipment, small aids, and technology to enhance client independence and daily function.
- Prepare detailed reports for funding panels to secure necessary resources for clients.
- Collaborate with GPs, hospital staff, and community teams to ensure coordinated care.
- Manage case documentation and maintain electronic databases while working remotely.
Senior Occupational Therapist
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
Perth, Australia
04.2022 - 06.2024
- Led urgent home assessments for older adults discharged from the ED, addressing complex issues such as falls, cognitive decline, pressure care, and functional impairment.
- Developed and implemented person-centered interventions to ensure safety, independence, and well-being post-discharge, focusing on reducing hospital readmissions.
- Educated patients and caregivers on adaptive strategies, and provided necessary equipment to support recovery and prevent complications at home.
- Worked closely with geriatricians, outpatient clinics, and community services to coordinate comprehensive care and seamless transitions from hospital to home.
- Conducted department-wide and hospital-wide training on the CCT2Home service, raising awareness of the benefits of early intervention for older adults.
- Supervised and mentored junior OTs, assistants, and students, fostering professional development and ensuring high-quality care delivery.
Senior Occupational Therapist
Bethanie Group
08.2020 - 09.2022
- Delivered comprehensive home assessments for older adults, focusing on falls prevention, cognitive support, and functional independence.
- Recommended home modifications, aids, and equipment to enhance safety and autonomy in daily activities.
- Conducted joint assessments with specialist OTs, physiotherapists, and nurses for complex cases, ensuring a holistic approach.
- Supervised Therapy Assistants, overseeing goal setting and interventions aligned with client-centered objectives.
- Collaborated with GPs, hospital teams, and MDTs to coordinate care, improving workflow and safety processes.
- Maintained accurate records and worked remotely to support service delivery.
Senior Occupational Therapist
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
WA, Australia
12.2008 - 04.2022
- Provided comprehensive interdisciplinary services primarily to older adults presenting to the ED, ensuring efficient and compassionate care
- Planned and implemented specialized assessments and interventions, focusing on falls prevention, back pain, and functional decline
- Conducted formal assessments (FIM, MMSE, MoCA, etc.) and developed discharge plans, ensuring safe transitions for patients
- Managed pressure care and coordinated with medical teams for equipment provision and discharge logistics
- Collaborated closely with doctors, nurses, and community services to enhance patient flow and facilitate referrals
- Conducted post-discharge assessments with the Care Co-ordination to Home (CCT2Home) service for ongoing support
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives and provided educational sessions for staff and students
- Offered coverage for the Medical Assessment Unit and supervised OT students in clinical practice
Senior Occupational Therapist (Casual)
Franklyn Work Safety
Perth, Australia
06.2018 - 06.2020
- Conducted ergonomic workstation assessments to optimize employee health and productivity
- Recommended appropriate equipment and strategies to alleviate symptoms and enhance comfort
- Collaborated with referrers to ensure tailored interventions for clients
- Led group assessments following office relocations to ensure optimal workstation setups
- Maintained an electronic database to track assessments and recommendations while working remotely
Occupational Therapist/Senior Occupational Therapist (Cover Position)
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
WA, Australia
07.2007 - 12.2008
- Served as Senior OT in the Emergency Department, providing interdisciplinary care and support for older adults
- Planned and implemented assessments and discharge planning in the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU), collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams
- Specialized in complex medical needs as part of the Strategic Winter Allied Team (SWAT), facilitating joint treatment sessions with physiotherapists and social workers
- Conducted assessments for the Discharge of the Elderly from Emergency Programme (DEED), including home visits and telephone assessments for patients over 75, liaising with GPs and community agencies
- Provided ward cover across specialties (General Medicine, Surgery, Orthopaedics, etc.), delivering timely interventions and equipment for safe discharges
- Established strong links with hospital specialists and community services to ensure seamless care transitions
- Conducted comprehensive home assessments pre- and post-discharge, ensuring the provision of necessary equipment and recommendations
- Acted as a pressure care specialist within the OT service and administered formal assessments (MMSE, RUDAS, GDS, etc.)
- Engaged in ongoing education through formal and informal training sessions
Occupational Therapist (Maternity Leave)
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
WA, Australia
12.2006 - 07.2007
Occupational Therapist – Adult Psychiatry
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
WA, Australia
05.2006 - 12.2006
- Developed and implemented engaging group programs tailored to patients' interests and needs, fostering a therapeutic environment
- Conducted individualized assessments and interventions aligned with patient goals, enhancing their recovery and engagement
- Facilitated skills-based and discussion groups, promoting community social support and therapeutic interactions
- Actively participated in multidisciplinary team meetings to coordinate care and improve patient outcomes
- Advocated for the OT program, promoting its benefits to medical and nursing staff
- Provided informal supervision and guidance to OT Assistants and students, fostering their development and integration into the team
Occupational Therapist – General Surgery
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
WA, Australia
07.2005 - 05.2006
- Planned and implemented specialized assessments, interventions, and discharge planning for a busy general surgery caseload, advising the multidisciplinary team on optimal rehabilitation options
- Served as a Pressure Care Specialist, providing guidance and training to OTs on fabricating specialized cushions
- Actively participated in ward rounds, case conferences, and team meetings, ensuring coordinated patient care
- Facilitated referrals to community facilities and collaborated closely with the Stomal Therapist for joint interventions
- Promoted the OT service through education sessions for nursing staff and intern doctors
- Engaged in ongoing professional development through formal and informal education, including completing the Occupational Therapy Practice Audit in February 2006
Senior II Occupational Therapist – General Medicine and Surgery/Neurosurgery
Aintree Hospital NHS Trust
UK
07.2002 - 11.2003
- Coordinated a referral system for 19 acute wards, focusing on palliative care and complex patient management
- Conducted comprehensive assessments and interventions for patients with complex medical issues, facilitating timely discharges and equipment provision
- Managed home assessments, providing specialist equipment and referring patients to social services for major home adaptations
- Conducted functional assessments for neurological patients in a regional Neurological Unit, utilizing tools such as the MMSE and COTNAB
- Contributed to the development of a Rapid Response Team in the Emergency Department, ensuring efficient discharge processes
- Collaborated closely with multidisciplinary teams and external agencies (e.g., Social Services, Macmillan Teams) to coordinate care and rehabilitation services
- Supervised and trained junior Occupational Therapists and Assistants, promoting professional development through education and training
Senior II/I Occupational Therapist – Elderly Physical Community Rehabilitation Team
Leeds Community & Mental Health NHS Trust
UK
10.1999 - 11.2001
- Facilitated early hospital discharges and prevented admissions as the sole OT in a multidisciplinary rehabilitation team
- Conducted hospital and community assessments, creating individualized treatment plans for rehabilitation assistants, focusing on personal care, cognitive training, and mobility
- Monitored treatment plans and coordinated discharge planning, liaising with families, GPs, and community services
- Actively trained and educated rehabilitation assistants on occupational therapy principles and safe equipment usage
- Promoted the OT service through education sessions for GPs, hospital staff, and community agencies, enhancing awareness and collaboration
Senior II Occupational Therapist – Orthopaedics
St. James & Seacroft University Hospital NHS Trust
UK
04.1999 - 10.1999
- Provided comprehensive assessment and intervention for patients in busy elective and trauma orthopaedic wards
- Led OT interventions in newly established pre-operative assessment clinics, focusing on enhancing patient readiness for surgery
- Collected and analyzed data on the effectiveness of OT interventions in pre-operative settings
- Collaborated effectively within a multidisciplinary team, conducting joint treatment sessions with physiotherapists
- Managed and supervised two OT assistants and supported the development of OT students
- Conducted pre and post-discharge functional home visit assessments, ensuring continuity of care and safety
- Maintained close liaison with community services to facilitate seamless patient transitions
- Participated in ongoing education and training initiatives to enhance team skills and service delivery
Senior II Occupational Therapist – Community Elderly Psychiatry
Portsmouth Health Care NHS Trust
UK
09.1998 - 04.1999
- Conducted individual assessments and developed goal-oriented interventions for patients with functional and organic psychiatric illnesses across three day hospitals
- Designed and facilitated various discussion and activity-based groups to promote engagement and recovery
- Performed functional home assessments to determine patient needs and facilitate appropriate equipment provision
- Established strong referral networks with GPs and community services to enhance patient support
- Engaged in continuous professional development through regular education and training sessions
Occupational Therapy Basic Grade Rotations
St. James & Seacroft University Hospital NHS Trust
UK
09.1996 - 09.1998
- Acute Adult Psychiatry (January 1998 to August 1998)
- Provided individualized assessments and interventions for both hospital inpatients and outpatients, focusing on personalized goal planning
- Developed and implemented rehabilitation and maintenance programs to support adult psychiatric patients in achieving community independence
- Planned and conducted discussion and activity-based groups in both hospital and community settings, fostering social interaction and skill development
- Assisted patients in finding and engaging in ongoing community activities, including voluntary and supported employment opportunities
- Contributed to the educational development of the team through participation in regular training sessions
- Occupational Therapist – Community Adult Neurological Rehabilitation (August 1997 to January 1998)
- Conducted individual assessments and provided interventions for patients in a short-stay residential rehabilitation setting, focusing on neurological recovery
- Performed functional home visit assessments to ensure safe transitions from rehabilitation to home environments
- Assisted the Senior OT in a specialist seating clinic to optimize patient comfort and mobility
- Collaborated with physiotherapists in joint treatment sessions to enhance patient outcomes
- Actively participated as a member of the multidisciplinary team, advocating for patient needs
- Engaged in regular informal and formal education and training to stay current with best practices
- Occupational Therapist – Elderly General Medicine (January 1997 to July 1997)
- Conducted individual cognitive and functional assessments for older adults within a hospital setting, focusing on enhancing independence
- Completed home assessments to identify needs and provide appropriate recommendations
- Provided equipment to increase patient independence and safety in daily activities
- Coordinated with social services to organize equipment, adaptations, care packages, and rehabilitation services
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary team members to develop holistic care plans
- Participated in ongoing education and training to improve service delivery
- Occupational Therapist – In-Patient Elderly Psychiatry (June 1996 to January 1997)
- Assessed and provided individualized interventions for short-stay and permanent older patients in a psychiatric hospital setting
- Planned and facilitated various discussion and activity-based groups to promote engagement and social interaction
- Conducted functional home assessments to ensure patient safety and support discharge planning
- Educated caregivers on dementia and the care process to enhance home support
- Actively participated as a member of the multidisciplinary team, contributing to comprehensive patient care
- Engaged in regular informal and formal education and training to enhance skills and knowledge
Casual Carer
Aldingham Nursing Home
Ulverston, UK
01.1991 - 12.1995
- Assisted residents with personal activities of daily living (ADLs) and supervised safe mobility
- Provided one-on-one time with residents to explore hobbies, reminisce, and create diaries, fostering connections to improve wellbeing
- Organized and ran social individual and group activities to enhance resident engagement and social interaction
Education
Bachelor of Dementia Care -
University of Tasmania
01.2016
BSc Honours - Occupational Therapy
St. Martins University College
Lancaster, UK01.1996
BTEC National Diploma - Caring Services
Furness College
Cumbria, UK01.1993
Diploma in Dementia Care -
Skills
Flexible and enthusiastic team member
Sound clinical reasoning skills
Excellent communication skills
Possesses a high level of planning and organisational skills
Uses evidence based practise
Competent to effectively work within time constraints of a busy environment
Timeline
Senior Occupational Therapist (Casual)
Compass OT Services
02.2024 - Current
Senior Occupational Therapist
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
04.2022 - 06.2024
Senior Occupational Therapist
Bethanie Group
08.2020 - 09.2022
Senior Occupational Therapist (Casual)
Franklyn Work Safety
06.2018 - 06.2020
Senior Occupational Therapist
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
12.2008 - 04.2022
Occupational Therapist/Senior Occupational Therapist (Cover Position)
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
07.2007 - 12.2008
Occupational Therapist (Maternity Leave)
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
12.2006 - 07.2007
Occupational Therapist – Adult Psychiatry
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
05.2006 - 12.2006
Occupational Therapist – General Surgery
Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
07.2005 - 05.2006
Senior II Occupational Therapist – General Medicine and Surgery/Neurosurgery
Aintree Hospital NHS Trust
07.2002 - 11.2003
Senior II/I Occupational Therapist – Elderly Physical Community Rehabilitation Team
Leeds Community & Mental Health NHS Trust
10.1999 - 11.2001
Senior II Occupational Therapist – Orthopaedics
St. James & Seacroft University Hospital NHS Trust
04.1999 - 10.1999
Senior II Occupational Therapist – Community Elderly Psychiatry
Portsmouth Health Care NHS Trust
09.1998 - 04.1999
Occupational Therapy Basic Grade Rotations
St. James & Seacroft University Hospital NHS Trust
09.1996 - 09.1998
Casual Carer
Aldingham Nursing Home
01.1991 - 12.1995
Bachelor of Dementia Care -
University of Tasmania
BSc Honours - Occupational Therapy
St. Martins University College
BTEC National Diploma - Caring Services
Furness College
Diploma in Dementia Care -
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