Recreation Therapist, PACE Program, Full-time

Hospice Savannah Inc; Savannah (GA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Hospice Savannah Inc. seeks a PACE Recreation Therapist to join the Interdisciplinary Team. The role focuses on conducting comprehensive recreational therapy assessments for new and existing PACE participants and developing tailored plans to support their goals.

The position requires strong collaboration with families, effective documentation, and leadership of support staff. Standard hours are weekdays with potential for occasional travel within the service area.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy from an accredited college.
• Experience with structured assessments and activity planning.
• Preferred familiarity with EHRs and CMS requirements.
• Current immunizations and ability to obtain medical clearance.

Responsibilities

• Complete recreational therapy assessments for new and reassess existing participants.
• Develop and implement evidence-based therapeutic recreation plans.
• Collaborate with the PACE IDT and families to support goals.
• Lead and mentor assistants, interns, and volunteers as needed.

Skills

Assessment skills

Teamwork

Communication

Documentation

Creativity

Leadership

Empathy

Computer literacy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Recreational Therapy

Tools

EHR systems

Job description

Job SummaryThe PACE Recreation Therapist is a member of the PACE Interdisciplinary Team (IDT)and is responsible for completing recreational therapy assessments for new PACEparticipants and reassessments for existing PACE participants as part of the PACE IDTcare planning process.The PACE Recreation Therapist is responsible for providing a comprehensivetherapeutic recreation and activity program for PACE participants. Activities areprovided primarily in the PACE Center on days of attendance but may also includegroup outings for participants in community locations.Minimum QualificationsMinimum 2 years’ experience in a social or recreational program providing and coordinating recreation services for the frail or elderly population within the past five (5) years (CMS requirement).One year of experience working with a frail or elderly population or, in the absence of such experience, receive appropriate training from PACE on working with a frail or elderly population before providing direct patient care to PACE participants independently. (CMS requirement).Meet a standardized set of competencies for the specific position description established by PACE before working independently. (CMS requirement).Before engaging in participant care, be medically cleared for communicable diseases and have up-to-date immunizations and vaccines. (CMS requirement)Have not been convicted of criminal offenses involving Medicaid, Medicare, other health insurance or health care programs, or social services programs under title XX of the Act (CMS requirement). Have not been excluded from participating in Medicare and Medicaid programs (CMS requirement).Have not been convicted of criminal offenses pertaining to physical, sexual, drug, or alcohol abuse. (CMS requirement).Competencies, Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesBachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy from an accredited college with emphasis on senior populations is requiredExperience working in Electronic Health Record (EHRs) preferredBLS Certified (preferred)Proficiency in conducting individualized assessments using structured interviews direct observation, and performance testing to identify participant strengths and limitations.Ability to develop and implement evidence-based recreational therapy plans tailored to participant needs and goals.Strong teamwork skills to work effectively with interdisciplinary teams, participants, and families.Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with participants, families, and team members.Documentation: Ability to accurately document assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries.Creativity and Flexibility: Capacity to adapt activities and schedules to meet diverse participant needs.Leadership: Ability to train, supervise, and mentor assistants, interns, and volunteers.Empathy and Patience: Compassionate approach to supporting participants with varying abilities and emotional needs.Computer Literacy: Proficiency in using electronic health records and other digital tools for documentation and communicationPhysical Demands and Work EnvironmentThe role may require periods of sitting, standing, and walking throughout the workday,as well as frequent use of hands and arms for keyboarding, documentation, activitypreparation, and facilitation of therapeutic interventions. The employee may berequired to assist with positioning, transferring, or supporting patients or equipment andmay occasionally lift, move, or carry items weighing up to 75 pounds. The position alsorequires sufficient sensory abilities—including vision, hearing, and perception—tosafely observe and interact with patients during therapeutic activities.Work is primarily performed in an office setting and in designated activity or therapeuticspaces within the facility. The role may involve routine exposure to common office noiseas well as intermittent exposure to patient care areas. Interactions may include workingwith individuals experiencing physical, cognitive, emotional, or behavioral challenges.The employee may be required to travel occasionally within the service area to supportprogramming or patient needs.Position Type and Expected Hours of WorkThis is a full-time, nonexempt position. The standard work schedule is Monday-Fridayfrom 8:00 AM-5:00 PM for a total of approximately 40 hours per week. Evening,weekend, or additional hours may be required based on operational needsTravelMust be able to travel as requiredOccasional group outings for participants in community locations