Occupational Therapist- Per Diem

Chicago's healthcare market shows a steady need for per diem occupational therapists, especially in specialty hospitals like Rush Specialty. This demand arises from the city's aging population and complex patient care requirements, offering flexible, well-compensated opportunities for skilled therapists focusing on post-ICU recovery.

Beyond the mandatory Illinois state licensure, certifications like BLS and specialized training in neurorehabilitation or chronic illness management boost employability. Facilities in Chicago value therapists who invest in continued education aligned with patient acuity and the city's regulatory standards.

Per diem scheduling offers substantial flexibility, allowing therapists to choose shifts that fit personal priorities. This arrangement suits those balancing diverse commitments while maintaining clinical skills, though it may limit some benefits available to full-time staff, making it ideal for professionals seeking adaptable engagements.

An OT in critical illness recovery must excel in managing complex patient needs, including cognitive and physical impairments post-ICU. Expertise in discharge planning, adaptive equipment usage, and interdisciplinary collaboration sets them apart, ensuring tailored rehabilitation strategies that improve long-term outcomes.

Daily tasks typically include conducting individualized therapy sessions, supervising OT assistants and students, assessing patient progress, and contributing to discharge planning with family education. These duties demand adaptability and a compassionate approach to facilitate each patient's recovery journey.

Select Medical offers a comprehensive orientation and fosters growth avenues, where dedicated per diem therapists can transition into full-time roles. Benefits like 401(k) eligibility upon meeting hour thresholds and employee assistance programs underscore the company’s commitment to part-time staff well-being.

Yes, therapists at Select Medical engage directly in treating complex, critically ill patients requiring extended healing. The role emphasizes specialized therapies, close monitoring, and multidisciplinary teamwork, aligning with the hospital's mission to support vulnerable patients during intensive recovery phases.

The position offers competitive pay around $55 per hour, reflecting Chicago's healthcare market rates for per diem OTs. This rate balances the specialized skills required for critical illness rehabilitation with the flexibility inherent in per diem employment.

Select Medical emphasizes career progression by providing structured orientation and the potential for per diem staff to secure full-time positions. Unlike some employers, their approach nurtures skill development and promotes internal mobility, enhancing long-term professional growth.

A frequent misunderstanding is that per diem roles lack benefits or career advancement. However, companies like Select Medical often offer pro-rated benefits, 401(k) options, and pathways to full-time employment, making these roles viable for both flexibility and professional development.