About the Role
The Umgeni Specialized Psychiatric Hospital is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to join their team in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is vital in providing comprehensive Occupational Therapy services aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals facing mental health challenges. By assessing, planning, and implementing effective treatment methods, the Occupational Therapist will play a crucial part in enhancing the therapeutic environment and supporting the mental well-being of the community.
As part of a dynamic healthcare team, the Occupational Therapist will engage with both patients and colleagues to foster a collaborative approach to mental health care. This position not only allows you to apply your professional skills but also offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to public service in South Africa. The role’s influence extends beyond individual treatment, impacting the overall effectiveness of psychiatric services and promoting mental health awareness in the community.
About the Department
Umgeni Specialized Psychiatric Hospital is committed to providing exceptional mental health care and rehabilitation. The hospital’s mission is to ensure that individuals with mental health challenges receive the support and treatment they need to reintegrate into society. Working at Umgeni means being part of a compassionate team that prioritizes patient care, excellence in service delivery, and continuous improvement in mental health practices.
The department plays a crucial role in the broader health system, aligning with national health policies to enhance mental health services across the region. Employees are encouraged to engage in professional development and contribute to innovative practices that improve therapeutic outcomes for patients.
What You’ll Do
- Assess patient needs and develop tailored Occupational Therapy treatment plans.
- Implement and monitor therapy sessions, ensuring they meet patients’ individual goals.
- Conduct administrative tasks, including compiling monthly statistics and clinical audits.
- Mentor and guide Community Service Therapists and university students in their professional development.
- Maintain accurate records and uphold quality assurance standards within the department.
- Collaborate with other health professionals to ensure integrated care for patients.
- Participate in departmental planning, budgeting, and procurement processes.
- Promote Occupational Therapy services to the community and contribute to research initiatives as needed.
What You’ll Need
- A National Senior Certificate and a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy, recognized by HPCSA.
- Current registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as an Occupational Therapist.
- Proficiency in computer skills and a valid Driver’s License.
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with sound knowledge of health legislation and policies.
- In-depth understanding of clinical Occupational Therapy theory, practice, and ethics.
- Effective problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure.
How to Apply
Please refer to the application instructions below to submit your application.
Requirements
National Senior Certificate.Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in Occupational Therapy that allows for registration with HPCSA as an occupational therapist.
Registration certificate with Health Profession Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as an Occupational Therapist.
Computer Literacy.
Valid Driver’s License.
Knowledge And Skills: Good communication and teambuilding skills.
Sound knowledge of the current Health and Public Service Legislation, Regulations and Policies.
Sound knowledge in the application of clinical Occupational Therapy theory, practice and ethics.
Adequate knowledge and competent use of therapeutic media, equipment, craft and rehabilitation activities.
Sound problem solving skills.
Demonstrate leadership ability, discipline and interpersonal relationship skills.
Ability to function under pressure with Mental Health Care Users.
Good ability to organize self and the duties allocated for efficient time management.
Job Duties
To assess, plan and implement Occupational Therapy treatment methods within Occupational Therapy Services and the other allocated areas of work, including management of Intellectual Impairment services.Perform administrative tasks such as accurate compilation of monthly statistics, clinical audits, report writing, attend and participate in meetings and assist in the development and implementation of protocols and polices.
Provide mentorship and guidance to Community Service Therapists and university students.
Ensure accurate record keeping and all quality assurance requirements.
Engage in skills development accordingly.
Assist in safeguarding and evaluating the status of equipment and infrastructure with a repair and maintenance programme as well as stock control management.
Contribute towards planning, budgeting, procurement processes and exercise control of expenditure within your department cost center.
Support the immediate manager in all transformative changes and additional supervisory tasks as needed.
Assist in the provision of high-quality Occupational Therapy Services through the development and implementation of appropriate systems, protocols, quality assurance programs and internal controls.
Market and promote Occupational Therapy Services and contribute towards research and training as required.
